Bangladesh summons Indian envoy over breach of its mission in Agartala
Bangladesh had lodged a strong protest against the alleged vandalism of its mission in Tripura's Agartala by a group of demonstrators.
Dhaka also closed its visa and consular office in Tripura following a security lapse incident.
“He (Verma) came as he was asked to come when we conveyed him our concerns,” a Bangladeshi Foreign Ministry official confirmed.
Bangladesh on Tuesday, Dec 3, summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma, a day after Dhaka lodged a protest against the alleged vandalism of its mission in Tripura's Agartala by a group of demonstrators.
The diplomatic tensions come amid political upheaval in Bangladesh, with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fleeing to India in August following mass protests against her government. Her departure was followed by the installation of an interim administration under Yunus.
Foreign Affairs Adviser Mohammad Touhid Hossain said the Indian envoy was called in response to the Agartala incident. The alleged attack saw protesters breach the premises of Bangladesh’s Assistant High Commission, reportedly engaging in vandalism and setting fire to the Bangladeshi national flag.
Speaking to reporters after meeting Acting Foreign Secretary Riaz Hamidullah, Pranay Verma reiterated India's commitment to strengthening ties with Bangladesh.
“Delhi wants to build a constant stable, constructive relationship with Bangladesh, saying no single issue should stand as a barrier for bilateral ties,” he stated.
India had earlier described the incident as “deeply regrettable.” The protesters were allegedly demonstrating against the arrest of Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das in Dhaka.
Pranay Verma emphasised the multifaceted nature of Indo-Bangladesh relations, saying, “Our relationship is wide-ranging and cannot be reduced to one issue or agenda. India is keen to build on inter-dependencies for mutual benefits.”
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, expressed concerns over the incident.
Law Affairs Adviser Asif Nazrul criticised the vandalism, calling it India’s “failure” to ensure diplomatic security. In a Facebook post, he wrote, “We believe in a friendship based on equality and mutual respect.
India must realise that this is not Sheikh Hasina’s Bangladesh.”
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