Bangladesh Summons Indian Envoy Over Sarma Remarks
Bangladesh has summoned India’s Acting High Commissioner in Dhaka, Pawan Badhe, to formally protest recent remarks made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on illegal migration and pushback operations.
Bangladesh Protests Himanta Biswa Sarma Remarks
Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Indian envoy on Thursday and conveyed its displeasure over Sarma’s comments, describing them as harmful to the spirit of bilateral relations.
Dhaka reportedly told New Delhi that public remarks by senior political leaders should avoid language that could negatively affect ties between the two neighbouring countries. The protest was lodged amid continuing sensitivity over illegal migration, border security and deportation-related issues.
Assam CM Comments Trigger Diplomatic Row
The controversy is linked to Sarma’s remarks on identifying and pushing back illegal Bangladeshi migrants from Assam. The Assam government has repeatedly raised concerns over infiltration, demographic change and border-linked security challenges.
However, Bangladesh has objected to the way the issue has been framed in public comments. Dhaka’s position is that such remarks may create misunderstanding and strain diplomatic goodwill between India and Bangladesh.
India-Bangladesh Relations Under Watch
The development comes at a sensitive time for India-Bangladesh relations, with both countries trying to manage border security, migration concerns, trade and regional cooperation.
While illegal migration remains a major political and security issue in Assam and other border states, diplomatic handling of the matter remains important for maintaining stable ties between New Delhi and Dhaka.
