India Raises Concerns Over Islamist Group's Map Claiming Parts of India

The Indian government has expressed concerns regarding an Islamist group's map that claims parts of India as part of a 'Greater Bangladesh.' External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar addressed these issues in the Rajya Sabha, highlighting the group's alleged Turkish support and the implications for national security. The map was displayed during a Bengali New Year celebration at Dhaka University, raising questions about the growing influence of foreign entities in Bangladesh. As diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh face challenges, the Indian government remains vigilant in monitoring developments that could impact its national interests. This situation unfolds amidst a backdrop of political turmoil in Bangladesh following the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 1, 2025, 12:54 IST

Government's Response to Islamist Group's Activities

The Indian government has acknowledged reports regarding an Islamist organization in Dhaka, purportedly supported by a Turkish non-profit, which has released a map depicting a so-called 'Greater Bangladesh' that includes territories of India, stated External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Thursday.

During a session in the Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar mentioned that the group, identified as Saltanat-e-Bangla, is allegedly backed by the Turkish Youth Federation.

This controversial map was showcased at an exhibition at Dhaka University on April 14, coinciding with the Bengali New Year celebrations, known as Poila Boishakh.

Jaishankar was addressing inquiries from Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala, who sought information about the group's activities and whether the Indian government had raised the issue with Bangladesh.

Surjewala also questioned if India had evaluated the security risks posed by increasing Turkish and Pakistani influence in Bangladesh.

In response, Jaishankar noted that the Bangladeshi government's fact-checking platform, BanglaFact, asserted there was no evidence of Saltanat-e-Bangla's operations within the country.

He further explained that the map was part of a historical exhibition referencing the 'so-called earlier Bengal Sultanate,' and the event's organizers have denied any connections to foreign political groups.

Jaishankar emphasized that India remains vigilant regarding its national interests in relation to Bangladesh.

He stated, 'The Indian government closely observes all developments that could affect national security and continues to implement necessary measures to protect it.'

Relations between New Delhi and Dhaka have been tense since Sheikh Hasina stepped down as prime minister and fled to India on August 5.

Hasina's departure followed extensive student-led protests against her Awami League government, which had been in power for 16 years, and she is regarded as a close ally of New Delhi.

Nobel laureate economist Yunus assumed leadership of Bangladesh's interim government three days after Hasina's exit.

In the aftermath of Hasina's government collapse, reports emerged of violence against religious minorities in various regions of Bangladesh.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Yunus in August to ensure the protection of Hindus and other minority groups. Yunus, however, claimed that reports of such attacks had been overstated.