Bangladesh enraged by Rajnath Singh’s advice, spewing venom in its rhetoric

New Delhi: Bangladesh’s interim government is undeterred by its venomous rhetoric against India. Now, it has criticized India over Defense Minister Rajnath Singh’s remarks. The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry stated that Rajnath Singh’s comments were inappropriate and against etiquette. Bangladesh subsequently stated that Bangladesh is committed to mutually beneficial relations with India.

State news agency BSS quoted Bangladesh Foreign Office spokesperson SM Mahbubul Alam as saying, “We believe Singh’s comments are inappropriate and unhelpful.” Singh reportedly said that India does not want strained relations with Bangladesh, but Yunus should “exercise caution in his statements.”

Alam stated that Bangladesh is “committed to a mutually beneficial relationship with India based on sovereign equality, non-interference in each other’s affairs, and mutual respect.” Alam added that any differences between the two countries should be resolved through dialogue in a constructive and respectful manner. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh also stated that India does not want any tension with Bangladesh.

Regarding the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024 and the subsequent formation of an interim government under the aegis of the military, relations between the two countries have been strained. Bangladesh is increasing its closeness with Pakistan. A Pakistani warship recently arrived in Bangladesh, which is a matter of concern for India. This is the first time since the 1971 war that such closeness has been observed between Bangladesh and Pakistan.

General elections are also scheduled in Bangladesh in February. However, like Pakistan, all democratic norms have been eroded in Bangladesh. Sheikh Hasina is currently in India, but her party has already launched protests against the Yunus government. There seems to be only one way to improve relations between India and Bangladesh and that is the return of Awami League.