Despite growing political and economic tensions between India and Bangladesh, a recent exchange of Eid-ul-Adha greetings between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has offered a rare gesture of goodwill—potentially signalling a cautious step toward diplomacy and mutual engagement.
Eid Messages Reflect Shared Values
In a letter dated June 6, Muhammad Yunus responded warmly to Modi’s Eid greetings, stating:
“I am confident that the spirit of mutual respect and understanding will continue to guide our nations to work together for the wellbeing of our peoples.”
He described Eid-ul-Adha as a time of reflection, sacrifice, unity, and generosity, underlining its relevance not only as a religious observance but also a moment to strengthen social cohesion and regional partnerships.
Modi, in his letter dated June 4, had echoed a similar tone, calling Eid-ul-Adha:
“An integral part of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India,”and a reminder of “timeless values of sacrifice, compassion and brotherhood… essential in building a peaceful and inclusive world.”
A Diplomatic Breather Amid Tense Relations
This diplomatic courtesy comes at a time of heightened tensions between the two neighbours:
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Political Rift: Relations began souring after Sheikh Hasina was ousted from power in August 2024. She took refuge in India after her Awami League party was banned in May 2025, prompting Dhaka to accuse New Delhi of meddling in its internal politics.
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Economic Strain: Bangladesh currently suffers a $10 billion trade deficit with India, adding economic pressure to the already fragile ties.
These issues have created an undercurrent of suspicion and regional instability. The Eid greetings, while symbolic, hint at an attempt to reopen channels of dialogue—albeit cautiously—through cultural diplomacy.
Broader Context
Muhammad Yunus, best known internationally as a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, was appointed as Chief Adviser in Bangladesh’s interim government amid a political vacuum and public unrest following Hasina's removal. His emphasis on people-centric governance and regional cooperation may contrast with the more political approach of his predecessors.
Meanwhile, New Delhi continues to walk a tightrope—balancing strategic interests in South Asia with its regional image, particularly given its historical closeness to Hasina’s administration.
What’s Next?
While the Eid messages are unlikely to resolve the deeper structural and political rifts, they could slow down diplomatic deterioration and possibly pave the way for:
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Track-II dialogues or back-channel talks
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Trade renegotiations to address Bangladesh’s growing concerns
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Multilateral pressure from regional forums like SAARC or BIMSTEC for de-escalation
In a region often shaped by fluctuating alliances and historical legacies, even small gestures—like exchanging festive greetings—can be the first steps toward rebuilding trust.
