PM Modi Urges Stronger India-Bangladesh Ties Amid Minority Concerns
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the need for deepening India’s relationship with Bangladesh, urging both countries to remain sensitive to each other’s interests and concerns. In a letter addressed to Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus on the occasion of Bangladesh’s National Day, Modi invoked the shared sacrifices of the 1971 Liberation War, describing it as the foundation upon which the current bilateral partnership stands.
India-Bangladesh Relations
Modi underscored that the spirit of the Liberation War continues to inspire and guide cooperation between the two nations. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening the relationship through mutual trust, understanding, and respect. The message comes at a time when India is seeking to solidify ties with its eastern neighbor on matters of trade, security, and regional stability.
Minority Safety Concerns
The Prime Minister’s outreach is also seen in the context of recent tensions following rising incidents of violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh. Over 2,300 such incidents have been reported between August 2024 and February 2025, with more than 1,200 verified by authorities. Although most of the incidents have been labeled “political in nature,” India has expressed concern and called for meaningful action to ensure the safety and dignity of all minority communities.
Narendra Modi’s Message
In his letter, Modi highlighted the progress made in bilateral cooperation and urged continued momentum toward shared goals of peace and prosperity. He stressed that enduring ties between India and Bangladesh must be anchored in mutual care for each other’s core concerns—including the safety of vulnerable communities.
The Prime Minister’s remarks reflect New Delhi’s strategic balancing act of supporting a close neighbor while signaling unease over internal developments that could affect regional harmony. As both countries prepare for evolving geopolitical challenges, the tone of Modi’s message suggests an intention to preserve the relationship through constructive engagement.
