India’s envoy should be kicked out from Bangladesh: Hasnat Abdullah

The National Citizen Party (NCP) Southern Region Chief Organiser and the party's nominated candidate for Cumilla-4 (Debidwar) constituency Hasnat Abdullah has said that India’s high commissioner to Bangladesh should have been boycotted in a manner “beyond diplomatic etiquette.”

He made the comments while addressing a local gathering in Cumilla's Debidwar on Wednesday (December 17).

Referring to reports that Bangladesh’s envoy had been summoned and reprimanded by Indian authorities, Hasnat said India’s actions warranted a far stronger response. “Instead of just rebuking, India’s high commissioner should have been kicked out from the country for harbouring Sheikh Hasina, whom he called a ‘killer,’” Hasnat said.

He accused New Delhi of sheltering what he described as “criminal and militant elements” linked to Bangladesh and claimed that India had provided them with training and financial support.

He further alleged—without providing evidence—that tens of thousands of members of Awami League were currently residing in India without valid visas or passports, and that some were later sent back to Bangladesh after receiving support and training, where they allegedly became involved in criminal activities.

Hasnat argued that bilateral relations must be based on “fairness and mutual respect,” insisting that Bangladesh would respect India’s sovereignty and borders only if India showed the same respect toward Bangladesh.

“If you believe in a shoot-on-sight policy, why should I respond with courtesy?” he said, adding that resistance was inevitable if Bangladesh felt threatened.

The remarks come amid periodic strains in Bangladesh–India relations, particularly over border security, political asylum, and allegations of cross-border interference.

Indian authorities have not responded publicly to Hasnat Abdullah’s statements, and no official position has yet been issued by the Bangladeshi government.