Bangladesh sends protest note to India over Hasina's speech as New Delhi criticises attack on her father's home

The diplomatic row between India and Bangladesh intensified over former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s presence in New Delhi. On Thursday, Bangladesh lodged a strong protest with the government of India over the “false and fabricated comments and statements,” allegedly made by the former premier. Meanwhile, New Delhi went on to condemn the recent vandalism of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence at Dhanmondi 32.

According to The Dhaka Tribune, Bangladesh handed over a protest note to Indian acting High Commissioner Pawan Badhe, conveying to the neighbouring nation that Hasina’s recent remarks are ‘instigating instability’ in Bangladesh. Badhe was summoned to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in this regard.

While responding to the questions over the matter, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said that Hasina’s recent remarks can be seen as “provocative” by Dhaka and have the potential to hurt the young generation’s sentiments. “We will see what steps India takes,” he said, adding that Dhaka keeps requesting India so that Hasina refrains from such activities. New Delhi is yet to respond on the matter.

India condemns demolition of Dhanmondi, Dhaka admits the fault

Meanwhile, India issued a separate statement condemning the destruction of Rehman’s residence. “It is regrettable that the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, a symbol of the heroic resistance of the people of Bangladesh against the forces of occupation and oppression, was destroyed on February 5, 2025,” said Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal at a press briefing on Thursday.

“All those who value the freedom struggle that nurtured Bangla identity and pride are aware of the importance of this residence for the national consciousness of Bangladesh. This act of vandalism should be strongly condemned,” he added. Hossain admitted that the demolition was seen negatively. “We know it will come negatively (destruction at Dhanmondi 32),” said the Adviser when asked about the international media’s reaction.

“We see it as an expression of anger,” he emphasised, adding that the government would try to stop the repetition of such things. When asked about the status of a signed agreement with India, the Bangladeshi foreign adviser said that the “deal with Adani was not a good one, and it was not done protecting Bangladesh’s interests.”

During his visit to Dhaka, Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Mistri highlighted India’s support for “democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive and in inclusive Bangladesh. He also raised concerns about the plight of minorities who are struggling in the country.