A reset in ties

Misri's discussions extended beyond immediate concerns to broader bilateral issues, including border management, trade, connectivity, and cooperation in water and energy sectors. Both sides emphasized the need for a constructive approach to rebuild trust and strengthen ties. Yunus described the India-Bangladesh relationship as 'very solid' and reiterated his commitment to addressing mutual concerns, urging India to help 'clear the clouds' overshadowing bilateral relations

- ANAND KUMAR

Against a backdrop of rapidly deteriorating relations between India and Bangladesh, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's recent visit to Dhaka marked a crucial effort to restore bilateral ties.

The historically robust relationship between the two nations has frayed following significant political upheaval in Bangladesh and rising tensions over minority rights. This visit, the first high-level engagement since the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August, was aimed at addressing shared concerns and fostering dialogue.

The political crisis in Bangladesh has significantly strained ties with India. Following Sheikh Hasina's resignation and subsequent exile to India, the interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus has struggled to maintain stability. Law and order in the country has steadily declined. Allegations of increasing violence against minorities, particularly Hindus, have heightened tensions.

Reports of attacks on Hindu temples and cultural sites, including the Indian government-run Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre in Dhaka, have drawn sharp criticism from New Delhi. The arrest of a prominent Hindu monk, Chinmoy Krishna Das, on sedition charges further fuelled unrest, prompting protests in Indian states bordering Bangladesh and retaliatory demonstrations in Dhaka.

Hindus and other minorities who constitute nearly 8 percent of Bangladesh's 170 million population have faced increased violence in the wake of Hasina's removal. Historically associated with Hasina's Awami League, these communities now face heightened threats as right-wing forces gain prominence.

While India has expressed concerns over the surge in extremist rhetoric and violence, the Yunus government initially dismissed these claims, asserting that minorities are better protected under the current administration. They even argued that it was their internal matter and India should not interfere in this.