Uncertainty Over India’s Withdrawal of Diplomatic Families

The Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Adviser, Md. Touhid Hossain, has expressed bewilderment regarding the Indian government's decision to withdraw the families of its diplomats from Dhaka. Speaking to journalists at his office on Wednesday afternoon, the Adviser clarified that the interim government has received no formal complaints or specific security concerns from the Indian High Commission that would justify such a drastic measure.

While India has framed the move as a precautionary step following the recent death of an Indian national in Bangladesh, the Foreign Adviser maintained that the current security climate does not warrant an exodus of diplomatic staff or their kin. "I cannot find any logical reason for this," Hossain remarked. "Whether this is a genuine fear or a strategic 'message' remains unclear to us."

A Departure Without Precedent?

The Adviser was questioned on whether the withdrawal mirrors past historical escalations, such as the removal of Indian diplomatic families from Pakistan during Operation Sindoor. Hossain declined to draw parallels with such high-tension historical events, insisting that the internal situation in Bangladesh remains stable, particularly in the lead-up to the 13th National Parliamentary Elections.

In response to suggestions that the government has failed to reassure Indian officials while succeeding with other foreign missions, Hossain dismissed the notion of "failure." He argued that if a sovereign nation decides to relocate its personnel for internal reasons, it is their prerogative, regardless of the level of protection provided by the host country.

Security Measures and Economic Shifts

Despite the perceived diplomatic chill, the Foreign Adviser highlighted that Bangladesh has consistently met all security requests made by the Indian mission. Following recent protests near the High Commission, additional forces were deployed to ensure the safety of the compound and its staff.

The table below outlines the key points of contention regarding current Indo-Bangla diplomatic relations:

The Chittagong Economic Zone

On the economic front, the Adviser confirmed a significant shift in policy regarding the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) previously allocated to India in Chittagong. Hossain revealed that the allocation was cancelled some time ago, and the land has since been reallocated for a "specific specialised industry," marking a departure from the previous administration’s bilateral commitments.

The Foreign Ministry continues to monitor the situation, asserting that while they are ready to cooperate, they cannot influence decisions made unilaterally by New Delhi.