Recent reports indicate a growing rift between Bangladesh and India, fueled by accusations from Bangladesh's Interim Chief Adviser, Muhammad Yunus, made during his visit to New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Yunus has placed blame on India for a multitude of issues, a stance that some perceive as an attempt to garner support from Islamic radicals within Bangladesh.

Yunus has stated that relations between Dhaka and New Delhi are strained, pointing to India's disapproval of student protests in Bangladesh last year that led to the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He alleges that India is providing refuge to Hasina, which is a source of tension. "India is hosting Hasina, who has created problems...that creates tension between India and Bangladesh," Yunus stated. He has also accused Hasina of committing crimes and has requested India to extradite her.

Furthermore, Yunus has accused Indian media outlets of disseminating "fake news" and propaganda, which he claims has exacerbated tensions between the two nations. According to Yunus, these reports falsely portray the protests as an Islamist movement. He has also denied reports of rising Islamic fundamentalism in Bangladesh.

Yunus has also been critical of India's role within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), suggesting that India's political resistance is hindering regional cooperation. He emphasized the need for regional cooperation on the economic front and expressed regret that SAARC summits have not occurred since 2014. Yunus envisions Bangladesh as a bridge for regional trade and ocean access, advocating for the revival of SAARC to facilitate greater connectivity and collaboration among member countries. He compared SAARC to the European Union, emphasizing the potential for visa-free travel and ease of business within South Asia.

In addition to his remarks on India and regional cooperation, Yunus addressed other matters during his visit to UNGA. He met with Finland's President Alexander Stubb to discuss various issues, including the Rohingya crisis, the Russia-Ukraine war, and UN reform. Yunus expressed his view that the UN has become largely ineffective in addressing major global crises. He also met with Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to discuss strengthening bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Yunus has stressed that his government is committed to holding free, fair, and credible elections in February 2025. He has also stated that the trials of Sheikh Hasina and her associates are a top priority and are being conducted in accordance with international legal standards.

These accusations and statements from Yunus have contributed to a significant decline in bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India. India has yet to respond to Bangladesh's request to extradite Hasina.