‘Be mindful of public comments’: India registers strong protest over now-deleted post by Bangladesh’s chief advisor Muhammad Yunus’ aid

The now-deleted post drew a sharp rebuke from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Speaking on the matter, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “We have registered our strong protest on this issue with the Bangladesh side. We understand that the post being referred to has reportedly been taken down. We would like to remind all concerned to be mindful of their public comments.”

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— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) December 20, 2024

Jaiswal further emphasised India’s commitment to maintaining friendly ties with Bangladesh, saying, “While India has repeatedly signalled interest in fostering relations with the people and the interim government of Bangladesh, such comments underline the need for responsibility in public articulation.”

The incident has sparked diplomatic ripples at a time when both nations are navigating sensitive political dynamics. Bangladesh is currently under the leadership of an interim government, with Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, at the helm.

Bangladesh had been a key ally to India since former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina came to power in 2009. From eradicating anti-India terrorist groups, which operated out of safe havens in Bangladesh, to facilitating greater economic, social, and cultural ties, Hasina’s tenure had seen a healthy relationship between New Delhi and Dhaka. However, the relations between the two countries soured after Hasina fled after a popular uprising and sought refuge in India.