Bangladesh urges India to stop border push-ins
Bangladesh’s foreign advisor says Delhi must adhere to existing norms as Dhaka protests forced returns and border export suspensions
DHAKA, Bangladesh (MNTV) — Bangladesh has formally raised concerns with India over recent “push-in” incidents along the border, urging New Delhi to abide by existing agreements and not act beyond agreed protocols.
Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain confirmed that a letter had been sent to India, protesting the forced return of individuals across the border.
According to independent media outlet bdnews24.com, the move comes amid heightened tensions over the handling of undocumented persons, including Rohingya refugees.
“We don’t expect a reply within a day,” Hossain said. “They have conveyed part of their position, and we have explained ours — that such actions are unacceptable from our side.”
He added that any transfer or repatriation must follow established procedures. “They’ve shared some names with us. We are currently verifying those through the home ministry,” he said.
The advisor emphasized continued diplomatic engagement with New Delhi. “We’re in contact with India. We’re working to ensure nothing happens outside the rules.”
When asked whether Rohingya refugees allegedly pushed into Bangladesh would be returned through similar means, Hossain responded: “So far, no clear decision has been made on this matter. But if anyone is proven to be an Indian national, they must be taken back.”
The interim government had previously indicated its intent to review existing bilateral agreements with India. Addressing this, Hossain said that several minor agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed over the years, and that any review or cancellation would follow legal procedures.
“Such agreements must be cancelled with mutual consent, or if there are provisions allowing one party to withdraw unilaterally, those will be considered,” he noted. “At this moment, none of the agreements have been cancelled.”
On whether India was violating any terms, Hossain said the interpretation of rules can vary. “One might read them positively or negatively at times. So, we are moving forward, keeping that complexity in mind. No one ever admits they are violating rules.”
He also confirmed that Dhaka had sent a formal letter to India regarding the recent suspension of exports through several land ports, an issue that has added further strain to bilateral trade relations.
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
