Sun Oct 06 23:32:20 UTC 2024: ## Bangladesh Recalls Envoys Amidst Tensions with India
**New Delhi:** Bangladesh’s interim government has sparked controversy by recalling several of its envoys, including the high commissioner to India, Mustafizur Rahman. The decision, issued by the country’s foreign ministry, has reportedly caused unease among Bangladesh’s foreign service as some of the recalled envoys were not political appointees.
The move comes at a time of strained relations between India and Bangladesh, following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina administration in August. The caretaker government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has sought to engage with India, including requesting a meeting between Yunus and Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the UN General Assembly. However, India reportedly declined, citing Yunus’ critical comments about India and his suggestion of seeking Hasina’s extradition.
The recalled envoys include the permanent representative to the UN in New York, as well as ambassadors to Australia, Belgium, and Portugal. While some of these envoys were nearing retirement, the recall of Rahman, a career diplomat who played a key role in strengthening India-Bangladesh ties, has raised eyebrows.
Despite the tensions, India’s high commissioner to Bangladesh, Pranay Verma, met with Bangladesh’s de facto foreign minister Touhid Hossain on Wednesday to discuss bilateral relations. The activation of regular bilateral mechanisms was reportedly discussed during the meeting.
The recall of envoys and the strained relationship between the two nations raise questions about the future of India-Bangladesh relations. The interim government’s actions, including the controversial recall of diplomats, are likely to be closely watched in the coming weeks and months.
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