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India–Bangladesh Relations Face Strain Amid Diplomatic Closures and Political Unrest

ByAjay Gulia

India–Bangladesh relations have come under significant strain in late 2025 due to diplomatic, political, and security challenges. In December 2025, Bangladesh suspended consular and visa services in New Delhi, while India closed its visa centres in Rajshahi and Khulna, citing security concerns. These steps mark the sharpest diplomatic downturn in recent years, disrupting people-to-people contact.

Political instability in Bangladesh following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina in 2024 has contributed to the tensions. The killing of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi triggered widespread protests, many of which featured anti-India slogans, accusing New Delhi of interference in Bangladesh’s internal affairs.

Economically, bilateral trade stood at USD 13.46 billion in 2024–25, but the trade imbalance in India’s favour has been a recurring concern for Dhaka. Strategically, uncertainty now surrounds connectivity projects linked to India’s Act East policy, including transport and energy initiatives. India is also worried about border security, illegal migration, and militancy along the 864-km largely unfenced border.

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