Bangladesh's interim chief advisor, Muhammad Yunus, has reiterated his government's commitment to fostering strong bilateral relations with India, despite ongoing tensions. Yunus emphasized the importance of a positive relationship with their neighbor, stating, "We want to build the best relationship with India. They’re our neighbour. We don’t want to have a basic problem with them."
However, Yunus expressed concern about the impact of online disinformation campaigns on the relationship, adding, "But somehow things go wrong every time because of all the fake news." He noted that Bangladesh is becoming increasingly "jittery and angry" due to repeated instances of online disinformation.
"We try to get over this anger. But the whole barrage of things keeps happening in cyberspace. We can’t just get away from that. Even if we try to remain peaceful, suddenly they say something, do something- and the anger comes back. So this is now a big task for us," Yunus explained.
Tensions Following Leadership Change
Relations between Dhaka and New Delhi have been strained since the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who subsequently sought refuge in India. The interim administration, led by Yunus, banned Hasina's Awami League in May 2025, citing accusations of corruption and authoritarianism. They also accused India of interfering in Bangladesh’s internal affairs.
Furthermore, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has formally indicted Sheikh Hasina and two others for alleged mass murder related to the 2024 crackdown on student-led protests.
Upcoming Elections
Muhammad Yunus has announced that national elections will be held in April 2026. The international community is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh, particularly regarding the treatment of opposition parties.
Looking Ahead
Despite the current challenges, Yunus's statement indicates a desire to overcome obstacles and build a stronger, more stable relationship with India. The upcoming elections in 2026 will be a crucial test for Bangladesh and its future relationship with its neighbor.