India-Bangladesh Relations: JDU MPs in the Lok Sabha have raised questions about India-Bangladesh relations and the safety of minorities there. The government has responded to this issue.

Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh

Janata Dal United (JDU) MPs in the Lok Sabha on Friday (February 6, 2026) questioned the central government regarding bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh during the Budget Session of Parliament. Janata Dal United Lok Sabha MPs Giridhari Yadav, Dinesh Chandra Yadav, and Rampreet Mandal asked the External Affairs Minister whether bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh are currently going through a sensitive phase. If so, what are the details?

Additionally, is Pakistan attempting to exploit this situation to its detriment? If so, what are the details? Furthermore, has the government held any discussions with the interim government of Bangladesh regarding reports of public killings of minority citizens, particularly Hindus, in Bangladesh, and if so, what are the details?

Responding to the question, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh stated that India and Bangladesh, as neighboring countries, share deep historical, geographical, cultural, linguistic, and social ties. Our bilateral relations are focused on people-to-people development. Numerous exchanges and meetings continue between the two countries under institutionalized bilateral mechanisms. India's support for a democratic, stable, peaceful, progressive, and inclusive Bangladesh has been conveyed to the interim government in all relevant communications. 

What did the minister say on relations with Bangladesh?

The Minister stated that India's relations with Bangladesh are independent of its relations with third countries. The Government continuously monitors developments impacting India's national interests and takes all necessary measures to protect them. India has raised the issue of the safety and security of minorities in Bangladesh with the Bangladeshi authorities on all relevant occasions, including at the highest level. 

When did the Prime Minister raise the issue?

The issue of minority protection was raised by the Prime Minister in a meeting with Chief Advisor Mohammad Yunus on April 4, 2025, and by the Foreign Minister in a meeting with Foreign Advisor Touhid Hussain on February 16, 2025. The Government is continuously monitoring reports related to the protection of minorities in Bangladesh. Protecting the life, liberty, and well-being of all citizens of Bangladesh, including religious and ethnic minorities, is the primary responsibility of the Government of Bangladesh.