THIS is with reference to the report “Dhaka-Delhi ties dip over threats to sever India’s northeast” (Dec 19). The political situation between India and Bangladesh has been quite tense for some time, but the crisis was taken to a new level when India announced that its embassy in Dhaka was in danger, and that the reason for this was the growing unrest in the city. Although India is worried about the security of its diplomats in Bangladesh, but it has never been a role model in ensuring the safety of diplomatic missions on its own territory.

Only a year ago, the diplomatic mission of Bangladesh in Agartala was attacked by a Hindutva mob, and the police were accused of being mere spectators. India should reflect on its own actions before blaming its neighbouring countries.

India has failed time and again to follow international standards and norms, but still has the audacity to deliver lecture to its neighbours on global conventions. India’s recent behaviour towards Bangla- desh, both diplomatically and through its media, reflects a pattern of undermining the country’s sovereignty.

By framing the situation in Dhaka as a growing threat to stability, India is attempting to manufacture chaos in the eyes of the international community, positioning Bangladesh as a fragile state on the brink of collapse. This narrative conveniently serves India’s interests, both in the region and beyond, especially as Bangladesh prepares for its elections in February next year.

However, India is not a neutral observer here. It is actively contributing to the instability. In fact, many of the so-called ‘extremists’ in Bangladesh have been given shelter and support in India. India’s support for miscreants, exiled political figures, and the groups that destabilise Dhaka is a critical factor in prolonging the unrest that it so vocally criticises.

India should question itself: how come opposition elements in Bangladesh have found refuge in India? How come India keeps providing protection and support to people with the most questionable intentions who are openly working to destabilise the political system in Bangla- desh? This is not a trivial matter; it is the core of the regional instability that India pretends to be against.

By providing an active platform to exiled political figures and spreading the idea that Bangladesh is about to fall into chaos, India is the one that is creating the very discord it is claiming to stand against. We must also not forget India’s hand, especially its backing of anti-government elements. By performing the roles of both the critic and the instigator, India has found itself in a morally compromised position. At its worst, this is an example of hypocrisy which operates against the very idea of regional cooperation.

India should have a thorough and honest look at its ways before it goes about lecturing Bangladesh on the internal matters. India has to stop interfering in Bangladesh’s political scene and should better work to sort out the mess at home.

The Indian government needs to be aware of the fact that its democratic credentials are put into question when it fails to protect minorities under its own jurisdiction amid extremist rhetoric that is promoted by its own government.

Arman Ahmed
Dhaka, Bangladesh

Published in Dawn, December 27th, 2025