Jaishankar Issues Stark Warning to Bangladesh: Time to Choose – Hostility or Cooperation?

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Relations between India and Bangladesh have become increasingly strained following the rise of Mohammad Yunus to power in Bangladesh and growing attacks on Hindus. The situation came to the forefront after Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent meeting with Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor Mohammad Towhid Hussain in Oman.

In a candid statement, Jaishankar addressed the issue of Bangladesh’s hostile behavior, emphasizing that Bangladesh must decide what kind of relationship it seeks with India. “Our long and unique relationship with Bangladesh has existed since 1971, and they must now decide how they wish to move forward,” Jaishankar said.

The Foreign Minister criticized Bangladesh for blaming India for every incident occurring within its borders while simultaneously expressing a desire for good relations. "Bangladesh cannot say it wants good relations with India and then continue to blame us for their internal issues," he added. Jaishankar stressed that members of Bangladesh’s interim government cannot continually place blame on India for every issue.

He also highlighted two major factors contributing to the strain in bilateral relations. The first, Jaishankar pointed out, is the growing communal violence against minorities in Bangladesh, particularly against Hindus. “The surge in violence against minorities in Bangladesh has certainly impacted our thinking, and this is an issue on which we have spoken out,” he stated.

The second issue, according to Jaishankar, is the political climate within Bangladesh itself. "Now, it is up to them to decide the kind of relationship they wish to have with us," Jaishankar concluded. The future of India-Bangladesh relations remains uncertain as both nations navigate these complex challenges.