Dhaka summons Indian envoy over interference allegations

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday summoned Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka Pranay Verma, expressing serious concern over allegations that ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in India, is being allowed to incite terrorist activities in Bangladesh and undermine the upcoming national election.

In a press release issued on Sunday (December 14), the ministry said the Indian envoy was formally informed of Dhaka’s objections to what it described as Sheikh Hasina’s continued provocative statements encouraging violence inside Bangladesh. The government also renewed its demand for the prompt extradition of Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal.

The ministry further raised concerns about alleged anti-Bangladesh activities by Awami League-linked individuals based in India, accusing them of attempting to disrupt the forthcoming parliamentary election. India was urged to take steps to stop such activities and facilitate the extradition of those involved.

Bangladesh also sought India’s cooperation in preventing suspects linked to the attempted killing of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi from fleeing to Indian territory. Dhaka requested that, if any suspects have entered India, they be arrested immediately and handed over to Bangladeshi authorities.

According to the foreign ministry, the Indian high commissioner stated that India expects a peaceful and credible election in Bangladesh and is ready to extend full cooperation in this regard.