In response to India's decision to recall the family members of its diplomats from Bangladesh, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain stated on January 28, 2026, that he sees "no reason" for the move, emphasizing that there is no security situation in Bangladesh that endangers foreign officials or their families.

Speaking to journalists at the foreign ministry, Hossain said that the matter was entirely internal to India, stating, "They (India) can ask their officials or families to leave at any time". When questioned whether the withdrawal indicated any security concerns, he responded that there was no such indication, adding, "I do not understand what kind of signal this could be".

Hossain reiterated that no incident has occurred in Bangladesh suggesting any risk to Indian diplomats or their families. According to Hossain, "There is no situation here that would indicate danger. Perhaps they have some apprehension or want to convey a message, but I cannot identify any clear reason". He also noted that Bangladesh has not received any formal communication from India regarding security concerns, stating, "We have not been told that they are in danger".

India's decision, announced earlier in the week, comes weeks before the parliamentary elections in Bangladesh. Official sources in India stated that the advisory to withdraw families was issued as a "precautionary measure" due to the "volatile environment". The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has effectively designated Bangladesh as a "non-family" posting for Indian diplomats, a status previously reserved for high-risk locations like Pakistan. While families have been asked to return, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka and assistant high commissions in Chattogram, Khulna, Rajshahi, and Sylhet will remain open and fully operational.

This decision reflects growing apprehension in New Delhi regarding rising extremist activities and potential safety risks. Some reports indicate that the move also comes at a time when Indian missions have been facing security threats.

Referring to the broader security situation in Bangladesh, Hossain said there has been no overall disruption. He noted that while minor scuffles are not uncommon during election periods, the current situation does not appear worse than before.

In related news, Hossain also addressed Bangladesh's recently signed agreement with China for drone manufacturing, assembly and technology transfer, stating that it was based on national interest, and reactions from other countries were irrelevant.