A fresh diplomatic strain has emerged between India and Bangladesh following a series of controversial remarks by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma regarding the handling of alleged illegal immigrants. The situation escalated when Bangladesh formally summoned the acting Indian High Commissioner in Dhaka and lodged a protest, describing the comments as inappropriate and damaging to bilateral relations at a sensitive time.
The controversy stems from Sarma’s public statements suggesting that deporting suspected Bangladeshi nationals through official diplomatic channels is often ineffective. He argued that the process, which involves coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs and requires confirmation from Bangladesh, can be lengthy and uncertain. According to him, this has led to alternative practices along the border, where individuals are allegedly “pushed back” across the boundary, sometimes under the cover of darkness and in areas with minimal oversight.
These remarks gained widespread attention after they circulated publicly, prompting strong reactions from Dhaka. Bangladesh conveyed its concerns to the Indian envoy, Pawan Badhe, stating that such statements undermine the spirit of cooperation between the two countries. The protest comes at a time when both sides have been attempting to stabilise ties following earlier tensions.
Sarma has also highlighted what he described as operational challenges, including instances where individuals allegedly return after being sent back and the difficulty in securing formal acceptance from Bangladeshi authorities. He has linked the issue closely to domestic political narratives in Assam, where concerns over illegal immigration have remained a central theme.
The timing of the row is significant, as relations between the two neighbours have recently shown signs of improvement after a period of strain. Diplomatic engagements have resumed, including meetings involving Bangladesh’s foreign minister and senior Indian officials such as S. Jaishankar and Ajit Doval. These interactions followed political developments in Bangladesh under the leadership of Tarique Rahman.
Despite the current disagreement, cooperation between the two countries continues in key areas. India remains an important energy supplier to Bangladesh, particularly in the context of global uncertainties affecting fuel availability. However, the latest exchange underscores how sensitive issues such as migration and border management can quickly affect diplomatic ties.
The situation remains under watch, with no official response yet issued by India on the protest. The episode highlights the delicate balance required in addressing domestic concerns while maintaining stable and constructive international relationships.
