India's Bangladesh Tour Faces Cancellation Amid Rising Tensions
Cancellation of the Tour
The upcoming tour of Bangladesh by India, initially set for August, is now expected to be called off due to the ongoing unrest in the country, according to sources from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).
India was scheduled to engage in a three-match ODI series starting on August 17, followed by a three-match T20I series commencing on August 26.
Government's Advisory to BCCI
A BCCI insider revealed, "The government has advised against the India tour of Bangladesh due to the current situation there. An official announcement regarding the cancellation will be made shortly."
In 2024, India last visited Bangladesh, where they played a three-match T20I series and a two-match Test series, winning all matches without any losses.
Destruction of Durga Temple in Dhaka
India has expressed its disapproval over the demolition of a Durga temple in Dhaka, criticizing the actions of the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus.
The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, stated, "Extremists demanded the demolition of the Durga temple in Khilkhet, Dhaka. Instead of ensuring its protection, the interim government labeled it as illegal land use, leading to its destruction. This incident highlights the ongoing issues faced by Hindus in Bangladesh, and it is the government's duty to safeguard their rights and religious sites."
This decision has drawn condemnation from various minority organizations.
Trade Restrictions Imposed by India
In May, India implemented restrictions on Bangladeshi ready-made garments (RMG) and other goods entering through its northeastern land ports, including Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram, and specific locations in West Bengal. This action followed controversial comments made by Bangladesh's interim chief advisor, Muhammad Yunus.
During a speech in China, Yunus referred to India's northeastern states as a "landlocked region with no ocean access," which has led to diplomatic tensions, as Indian officials perceived this as a slight against the region's connectivity.
As a result of these restrictions, Bangladesh has been compelled to redirect its exports, including RMG, plastics, melamine, furniture, juices, carbonated beverages, bakery products, confectionery, and processed foods, through Kolkata port in West Bengal or Nhava Sheva port in Maharashtra, thereby increasing logistics expenses.