Recent reports indicate a diplomatic row between Bangladesh and India concerning alleged activities of the Awami League (AL) within Indian territory. The interim government of Bangladesh has strongly protested against the reported establishment of political offices by the banned Awami League in Delhi and Kolkata, urging India to take immediate action. Dhaka claims that these activities, along with the presence of fugitive AL leaders accused of serious crimes, are harmful to Bangladesh's interests and could strain bilateral relations.
In response, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed these concerns as "misplaced". MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Indian government is unaware of any anti-Bangladesh activities by purported members of the Awami League in India or any actions violating Indian law. He emphasized that India does not permit political activities against other countries to be carried out from Indian soil.
Bangladesh's concerns stem from reports of senior Awami League leaders, who are absconding in criminal cases related to crimes against humanity, allegedly conducting political work from India. Dhaka cited a public outreach event at the Delhi Press Club in July 2025, organized by these leaders under the guise of an NGO, as an example of such activity. The interim government views these actions as "an unambiguous affront against the people and State of Bangladesh".
The backdrop to this diplomatic friction is the recent political transition in Bangladesh, following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina's government in July 2024. The Awami League, Bangladesh's oldest political party, was officially banned under a newly amended anti-terrorism law. The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, has barred all activities of the party and its affiliated organizations until the International Crimes Tribunal completes trials against party leaders. This ban came after days of intense protests demanding accountability for alleged atrocities committed during the suppression of the July uprising.
India, while rejecting Bangladesh's claims of AL activity on its soil, has reiterated its expectation for free, fair, and inclusive elections in Bangladesh. The MEA spokesperson emphasized the importance of ascertaining the will and mandate of the people through a democratic process. This stance aligns with previous statements where India expressed concern over the ban on the Awami League, calling it a troubling development that undermines democratic freedoms.
The current situation presents a delicate challenge for India-Bangladesh relations. While India seeks to maintain friendly ties with its neighbor, it also emphasizes the importance of democratic principles and due process. Bangladesh, on the other hand, is focused on maintaining its internal stability and preventing any perceived interference in its domestic affairs. The coming weeks and months will be crucial in determining whether both countries can navigate these differences and reaffirm their commitment to a strong and mutually respectful relationship.
