Dhaka issued a sharp rebuke to New Delhi over its recent comments regarding Bangladesh’s elections, law and order, and minority rights, stressing that these matters fall exclusively within its domestic jurisdiction.
"Such comments from India are unwarranted and amount to interference in the internal affairs of another country," said Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam at a media briefing in response to a question on Thursday (13 March)
He further described the remarks as "misleading and a false reflection of reality."
Speaking at the ministry’s weekly briefing, Alam reiterated Bangladesh’s firm adherence to the principle of non-interference in the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and internal affairs of all nations.
He emphasised that Dhaka remains committed to fostering amicable and constructive relations with India, grounded in mutual respect, trust, and understanding.
"From this perspective, we hope that the relevant Indian authorities will take necessary steps to prevent the recurrence of such comments," he added.
The remarks follow a statement made by India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on 7 March, in which New Delhi underscored the importance of resolving all issues in Bangladesh through democratic means, advocating for "inclusive and participatory" elections.
At a media briefing in New Delhi, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed concerns over what he described as a "deteriorating law and order situation" in Bangladesh, exacerbated by the release of violent extremists convicted of serious crimes.
Additionally, Jaiswal highlighted concerns regarding violence against religious minorities, particularly the Hindu community in Bangladesh, stating that India expects Dhaka to conduct thorough investigations and ensure that all perpetrators of killings, arson, and violence are brought to justice without exception.
The exchange underscores the growing diplomatic friction between the two nations, with Bangladesh maintaining that such external commentary undermines its sovereignty, while India continues to voice apprehensions over developments in its eastern neighbour.
