‘Law and order is Dhaka’s responsibility,’ India gives a strong response to Bangladesh’s allegations; tensions rise over Sheikh Hasina

India on Sunday categorically rejected the claims of the interim government of Bangladesh. This statement was made in response to Dhaka’s recent press note and clarified its position amid growing diplomatic exchanges between the two neighbors. Reiterating its stance, India emphasized its support for the democratic process in Bangladesh.

A press release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated, “India categorically rejects the claims made by the interim government of Bangladesh in its press note dated December 14, 2025.” This statement came minutes after the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry summoned the Indian High Commissioner, expressing Dhaka’s deep concern over statements by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, accusing her of inciting violence from abroad.

Reiterates call for credible elections
The Ministry of External Affairs said, “We have consistently reiterated our support for free, fair, inclusive, and credible elections held in a peaceful environment in Bangladesh.” The Ministry of External Affairs strongly rejected allegations that Indian territory was being used for activities inimical to Bangladesh’s interests.

The statement said, “India has never allowed its territory to be used for activities inimical to the interests of the people of Bangladesh.” The Ministry further stated, “We hope that the interim government of Bangladesh will take all necessary steps to maintain internal law and order, including holding peaceful elections.”

Demand for Sheikh Hasina’s Extradition
This response comes after Bangladesh issued a strong statement in which Dhaka demanded the extradition of Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, accusing them of inciting violence and expressing concern over alleged attempts to disrupt the upcoming elections.

Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement, “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs today summoned the Indian High Commissioner to convey to the Government of India the serious concern of the Government of Bangladesh that the fugitive Sheikh Hasina is being allowed to make provocative statements urging her supporters to engage in terrorist activities in Bangladesh, aimed at disrupting the upcoming parliamentary elections.”

In the statement, Bangladesh reiterated its demand for the early extradition of Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to face the sentences imposed by judicial authorities in Bangladesh.

Attention to anti-Bangladesh activities
The Ministry also drew the attention of the Indian Ambassador to the anti-Bangladesh activities of fugitive Awami League members living in India. It alleged that these activities include planning, organizing, and facilitating terrorist activities within Bangladesh to disrupt the electoral process.

The Ministry also drew the Ambassador’s attention to the anti-Bangladesh activities of fugitive Awami League members living in India, including planning, organising and assisting in the execution of terrorist activities inside Bangladesh to disrupt the upcoming elections.