India is withdrawing the families of its diplomats from Bangladesh, citing security threats ahead of the February 12 general election. Officials described the move as an "internal readjustment," but did not provide a return date. Tensions have risen since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India in 2024, and New Delhi previously summoned Bangladesh's high commissioner over threats to its mission in Dhaka. Both foreign ministries have not issued an immediate response.
India To Withdraw Diplomats' Families From Bangladesh Citing Security Threats Ahead Of Feb. 12 Election
A Border Security Force (BSF) official stands in front of the gates of the India-Bangladesh international border in Petrapole, India, October 16, 2024. REUTERS/Sahiba Chawdhary
India has announced it will withdraw the families and dependents of its diplomatic staff from Bangladesh amid reported security threats, an Indian official said on Wednesday. The move comes as tensions rise ahead of Bangladesh's general election set for February 12.
Speaking on condition of anonymity, the official described the action as part of "internal readjustments" and pointed to reports in the Indian media outlining New Delhi's decision. The official did not provide a timeline for when the families might return.
Context
Campaigning for the election begins this week and has already produced protests and counter-protests across the country. Relations between India and Bangladesh have become strained since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India in 2024 following deadly unrest.
Diplomatic Concerns
Both the Indian and Bangladeshi foreign ministries did not immediately respond to requests for comment from Reuters. In December, India summoned Bangladesh's high commissioner to voice alarm over what New Delhi described as a deteriorating security situation in Dhaka, including specific threats against the Indian mission.
Political Developments
The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has repeatedly sought the extradition of Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh. New Delhi has expressed concern about reported violence targeting members of the minority Hindu community in Bangladesh; the interim authorities have rejected those warnings.
Note: The official source cited media reporting and spoke on condition of anonymity; independent verification of operational details and return timelines was not available at the time of reporting.
Help us improve.
