What’s Happening in Bangladesh? Former Diplomats Raise Alarm Over Political Turmoil

Former Indian diplomats have raised serious concerns regarding the political turmoil in Bangladesh, emphasizing the urgent need for free and fair elections. They highlight the ongoing violence against minorities and the challenges posed by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. With the Constitution sidelined and rising tensions, the situation is becoming increasingly precarious. This article delves into the insights shared by these diplomats, shedding light on the implications for Bangladesh and its relations with India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 22, 2025, 17:59 IST

Concerns Over Bangladesh's Political Landscape

New Delhi: Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty, a former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, emphasized on Monday that India has consistently articulated its views regarding the political climate in Bangladesh. He underscored the importance of conducting elections that are free, fair, inclusive, and credible, and transferring power to the victorious party.

In an exclusive interview, Chakravarty remarked, “India has made its stance clear. It has been reiterated that elections should be held promptly, ensuring they are free and fair, with power handed over to the winning party. India does not favor any particular party and will engage with whichever party emerges democratically elected. However, it is crucial to have a democratic party that reinstates the Constitution, which is currently not in effect.”

He further noted, “The Constitution has been effectively sidelined, making long-term planning impossible under such a government, as changes can occur at any moment. Therefore, India’s approach has been to observe and assess before taking further actions. While India will not interfere in domestic matters, we can express our concerns. We have voiced our worries regarding the violence against Hindus. If situations arise that pose a threat to us, we will certainly communicate our position.”

In a related statement, former diplomat Veena Sikri labeled the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus as 'illegitimate', asserting that it should be held accountable on a global scale for the violence against minorities and should not be permitted to remain in power.

Sikri highlighted the atrocities faced by Hindu minorities, stating, “The treatment of Dipu Chandra Das is barbaric and medieval. Such behavior is unacceptable in the 21st century. It suggests that the people of Bangladesh have been incited to act in such a brutal manner. Claims of blasphemy have been proven false by subsequent investigations.”

She pointed out that the Yunus-led interim government has remained silent while violence against Hindus, Buddhists, Christians, Sufis, and Ahmadiyyas has escalated since the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Sikri recalled that on August 8, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Yunus on his appointment as Chief Advisor to the interim government, urging him to safeguard minorities amidst the rising violence.

She added, “Hindu professors are being harassed and forced to resign, while Hindu journalists have been imprisoned for over a year without charges or trials. This situation in Bangladesh is truly barbaric, and as they attempt to conduct non-participatory elections, the violence is intensifying.”

K.P. Fabian, another former diplomat, commented on the worsening conditions in Bangladesh, stating, “Bangladesh is spiraling into chaos and anarchy, worsening daily. One contributing factor is that interim Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has failed to manage the situation, allowing anti-India factions like Jamaat-e-Islami to gain influence. Additionally, Pakistan and China are actively working to undermine relations between India and Bangladesh.”