The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned the Indian envoy in Dhaka to protest remarks made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, which Dhaka described as derogatory to Bangladesh–India relations and misleading regarding alleged pushbacks of disputed citizens.
Director General (South Asia) Ishrat Jahan called in Acting Indian High Commissioner Pawan Badhe to the ministry at 5pm on Thursday. According to officials, Sarma’s interview drew sharp attention within the ministry, which formally conveyed its displeasure to the Indian side.
The ministry also rejected claims suggesting illegal pushback practices, reiterating the importance of handling any such issues through established bilateral mechanisms and with due respect for international norms.
Dhaka emphasised that public statements that could strain ties between the two neighbours are unhelpful, and urged restraint from political figures on sensitive bilateral matters.
