Seven Sisters
India summons Bangladesh High Commissioner after provocative 'seven sisters' remark
New Delhi/IBNS: India has summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to New Delhi, Muhammad Riaz Hamidullah, to register a strong diplomatic protest over threats to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and a surge in anti-India statements by Bangladeshi political leaders.
New Delhi flags mission security concerns
The Ministry of External Affairs said the Bangladeshi envoy was formally conveyed India’s grave concern over the worsening security situation in Bangladesh.
Particular emphasis was placed on the activities of extremist elements who have openly announced plans to create a security threat around the Indian Mission in Dhaka.
India, the ministry said, categorically rejects what it described as a false and dangerous narrative being pushed by extremist groups in connection with recent developments in Bangladesh.
Criticism of interim government’s handling
Reiterating the historical bond between the two countries, India underlined that its relationship with Bangladesh is rooted in the 1971 Liberation War and strengthened through development cooperation and people-to-people ties.
It stressed that India supports peace and stability in Bangladesh and has consistently called for free, fair and inclusive elections conducted in a peaceful environment.
India also reminded Dhaka of its diplomatic obligation to ensure the safety and security of foreign missions and personnel.
‘Seven sisters’ comment sparks outrage
The controversy erupted after NCP student leader Hasnat Abdullah made a provocative claim at a protest rally organised by Inqilab Mancha, asserting that India’s “Seven Sisters” would be separated from the country.
The rally was held in connection with an attack on another student leader, Osman Hadi, with Abdullah alleging—without evidence—that India was backing the accused.
The remarks came at a sensitive time, coinciding with Bangladesh’s celebrations of its 55th Victory Day, further amplifying their impact.
India rejects allegations, calls for law and order
India has firmly dismissed the allegations emanating from Bangladesh’s political platforms.
The External Affairs Ministry said it expects the interim government in Dhaka to take all necessary steps to maintain internal law and order, including ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
New Delhi’s response comes amid growing unease over Bangladesh’s internal political flux following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, with Indian officials closely watching developments they say include attempts to dilute the legacy of the 1971 Liberation War and recalibrate Dhaka’s regional alignments.
Border precautions stepped up
Against this backdrop, Indian authorities have tightened security along the India-Bangladesh border.
In Assam’s Cachar district, prohibitory orders were imposed to prevent illegal movement, citing apprehensions over possible cross-border activity by extremist elements that could disrupt peace and stability.
The developments underscore rising diplomatic strain between New Delhi and Dhaka, as India signals zero tolerance for rhetoric questioning its territorial integrity or threatening its diplomatic presence.
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