India Denies Involvement in Bangladesh Clashes Amid Rising Tensions
On October 3, 2025, India firmly rejected allegations from senior Bangladeshi officials accusing it of involvement in violent clashes in Bangladesh’s Khagrachhari district. The External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal categorically dismissed these claims as “false and baseless”, underlining the ongoing strain in bilateral relations between the two neighbours following political upheaval in Bangladesh.
Background of the Khagrachhari Violence
The violence in Khagrachhari district erupted after the alleged gang rape of a tribal schoolgirl, triggering clashes between Indigenous tribal communities and Bengali settlers. The unrest, which occurred on September 29, 2025, resulted in three tribal men killed, dozens injured—including security personnel—and widespread arson and vandalism. The de-facto home minister of Bangladesh, Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, attributed the violence to external influence by India, intensifying diplomatic tensions between the countries.
India’s Official Response
Responding at a weekly media briefing, Randhir Jaiswal urged the interim Bangladeshi government to introspect and conduct serious investigations into the violence. He accused Dhaka of shifting blame to external actors rather than addressing internal extremism and law and order failures. India emphasised that the unrest relates to local extremist activities targeting minority groups, rather than any foreign involvement.
Impact on Bilateral Relations
The allegations follow a sharp downturn in India-Bangladesh ties since former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India in August 2024 amid a massive anti-government uprising. India’s refusal to accept responsibility reflects broader geopolitical challenges including Bangladesh’s tilt towards China. The situation in the Chittagong Hill Tracts, with its history of ethnic tensions, continues to be a flashpoint affecting both countries’ relationship.
Conclusion and Outlook
India’s rejection of Dhaka’s claims underscores the complicated political landscape in Bangladesh and the sensitive nature of India’s regional role. As investigations into the Khagrachhari violence continue, experts suggest that restoring trust and dialogue will be essential to stabilising India-Bangladesh relations moving forward.
