Bangladesh’s interim government chief Muhammad Yunus has rejected concerns over strained relations between Bangladesh and India, asserting that the diplomatic ties between the two neighboring nations remain strong despite recent tensions. Yunus acknowledged that some conflicts have emerged but attributed them mainly to misinformation and propaganda rather than any fundamental changes in the relationship.In an interview with BBC Bangla, Yunus highlighted the historical, political, and economic interdependence between Bangladesh and India, stressing that the foundation of their ties remains solid. According to him, while some differences have surfaced, they should not be mistaken for long-term diplomatic deterioration.
 

"There is no way Bangladesh-India relations cannot be good. Our ties are close, and our mutual dependence is high. However, some conflicts have arisen, and I have described them as clouds that appeared in the middle. These clouds have mostly come from propaganda, and it is up to others to determine the sources of such misinformation," Yunus said during the interview.He reassured that efforts are being made to resolve any misunderstandings and reaffirm cooperation between Dhaka and New Delhi. When asked whether Bangladesh is in direct communication with the Indian government, Yunus confirmed ongoing diplomatic engagement."There is constant communication. Their representatives are visiting here, and our officials are traveling there. I personally spoke with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the first week," he stated without disclosing specific details of the discussions.
 

Political Unrest, Sheikh Hasina’s Exile, and Future Elections

Relations between Bangladesh and India have been under scrutiny since the collapse of Sheikh Hasina’s government following mass student-led protests in August. More than 1,000 people reportedly lost their lives during the unrest, and the subsequent transition to the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has drawn criticism from India, particularly regarding the treatment of minority communities.Sheikh Hasina, who led Bangladesh for 16 years, has been residing in India since August 5, after fleeing Bangladesh amid political turmoil. The Indian government has yet to issue an official stance on her long-term presence, but sources suggest that India continues to observe Bangladesh’s evolving political landscape with concern.
 

Amid these developments, there is growing domestic pressure for early elections and a return to a democratic government. Various political factions in Bangladesh have demanded a clear roadmap for elections, fearing that the current interim government may overstay its mandate. Yunus has hinted that elections could be possible by late 2025 but clarified that he has no intention of contesting.The interim government’s handling of internal political conflicts and diplomatic relations with India will be crucial in shaping Bangladesh’s future. With tensions still simmering, the government is likely to continue its outreach to India to maintain stability while navigating the calls for democratic restoration.As diplomatic talks continue, Bangladesh’s leadership faces the challenge of addressing both internal and external concerns. The next few months will determine whether Yunus can maintain a balanced approach to governance while ensuring that Bangladesh-India ties remain intact despite the ongoing political unrest.