NEW DELHI/DHAKA – The Bangladeshi government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has called on Indian authorities to restrict comments by West Bengal politicians, particularly BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, following his strong remarks about suspending trade with Bangladesh.
Adhikari warned that halting exports to Bangladesh would cripple its reliance on Indian essential commodities and issued sharp criticisms of Yunus, vowing retribution for alleged injustices against Hindus and questioning Bangladesh’s ties with Pakistan.
Rising Tensions
Bangladesh, accusing Adhikari of inflammatory rhetoric, urged India to maintain diplomatic decorum. Adhikari countered, defending his statements as concerns about Bangladesh’s policies, including hosting a Pakistani ship after 53 years.
Sovereignty and Free Speech
Critics have called Bangladesh’s appeal undemocratic, emphasizing India’s commitment to free speech. “Trade decisions are sovereign matters. Instead of silencing voices, Bangladesh must reflect on its actions,” noted a political analyst.
The escalating diplomatic row highlights the challenges in balancing bilateral ties and domestic political freedoms.