India's Jaishankar Urges Bangladesh to Stop Blaming for Tensions Amid Political Turmoil

India's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, has voiced significant concern over the continuous anti-India sentiments expressed by members of Bangladesh's temporary administration. During a meeting in Muscat with Bangladesh's Foreign Affairs Adviser, Towhid Hossain, Jaishankar highlighted the need for Dhaka to cease attributing every problem to India. This dialogue underscores a tension between the two nations, contrasting sharply with their historically strong ties since Bangladesh's independence in 1971.

The tension arises amidst political turmoil in Bangladesh, following the resignation of its former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, on August 5, 2022. Her departure, prompted by protests over reservations, led her to seek asylum in India. Since then, the provisional government under Mohammad Yunus has been the target of public dissatisfaction. This unrest has manifested in various forms, including protests and assaults on the historical residence of Hasina's father, Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, along with properties of Awami League party affiliates. While Hasina has implicated the interim regime in these attacks, officials from Dhaka have refuted these allegations, appealing to India's acting High Commissioner to halt her from disseminating what they deem as unfounded claims.

Jaishankar, speaking at a public gathering, articulated his concerns regarding the bilateral relationship's current state. He pointed out two primary issues straining ties: the persecution of minorities and the prevailing political climate in Bangladesh. Despite these challenges, Jaishankar emphasized India's desire for a harmonious relationship with Bangladesh, stressing that the ball is in Dhaka's court to determine the nature of their bilateral engagement. "We have had good relations with Bangladesh since 1971. Recently, the interim government leaders have been blaming India for everything. It's quite ridiculous. There are two main issues affecting our bilateral relations. Firstly, the religious attacks on minorities. We have discussed this with their leaders many times. Secondly, their political situation. You may agree or disagree, but we want good relations with Bangladesh. It's up to them to decide what kind of relationship they want with Delhi," Jaishankar stated.

In conclusion, the discord between India and Bangladesh, propelled by the interim government's anti-India rhetoric and the broader political discord within Bangladesh, presents a complex challenge to the longstanding friendship between the two nations. India's call for cessation of blame and a reflection on bilateral issues underscores the critical juncture at which these relations stand, with future dynamics heavily dependent on the actions and decisions of Bangladesh's current leadership.