The Indian government has firmly dismissed allegations made by Bangladeshi officials claiming that India is instigating the ongoing conflicts and violent incidents in Bangladesh. The assertions came from Home Minister Jahangir Alam Chaudhary, who alleged that India was fueling violence in the wake of clashes that erupted in the Khagrachari district, located in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of southwestern Bangladesh last week.
According to the Press Trust of India (PTI) report from New Delhi, India has categorically rejected the accusations leveled by Bangladeshi authorities. The unrest in Khagrachari last week prompted the current Home Minister to suggest that India was responsible for promoting unrest and violence in the region.
Government’s Accusations Called Unfounded
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal has labeled these allegations as unfounded and misleading. He emphasized that the interim government of Bangladesh is struggling to maintain order within its own borders and is resorting to blaming external forces for its failures.
Jaiswal suggested that the focus should instead be on the local extremist groups responsible for violent acts, arson, and land encroachments targeting minority communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. The surge of violence in the area was reportedly ignited by a troubling incident of sexual assault that occurred last week, which sparked unrest.
Strengthening Counter-Terrorism Efforts with Canada
In a separate development, the Indian government is working closely with Canada to enhance security cooperation, particularly in combating terrorism. The discussions include the potential designation of the Lawrence Vishnoi gang as a terrorist entity in Canada. Jaiswal confirmed that both nations have agreed to foster collaboration in areas of terrorism and international crime. He also highlighted a productive conversation that took place between National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart on September 18.
During this dialogue, the two officials exchanged valuable insights regarding bilateral relations, focusing on counter-terrorism measures, strategies to combat international organized crime, and the sharing of intelligence information.
Positive Developments in India-China Relations
Spokesman Randhir Jaiswal also noted significant strides in India-China relations, particularly the resumption of direct flight services between the two nations. He described this as a substantial advancement, indicating a revival of trade and business activities. The flight services are set to commence later in October, aligning with the growing trend of normalization in diplomatic relations between India and China.
Anticipation Surrounds Afghan Foreign Minister’s Visit
In another key development, Afghan Foreign Minister Aamir Khan Muttki is making his inaugural visit to India, marking a pivotal moment in the relationship between India and the Taliban-led government. This visit, which has received special clearance from the United Nations Security Council, has generated considerable interest as it could signal a new chapter in diplomatic ties.
During his visit, Muttki is expected to engage in discussions with Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. When asked about the specifics of Muttki’s visit, spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the Indian Foreign Ministry is in ongoing communication with Afghanistan’s interim government and assured that updates regarding this significant visit will be provided as they become available.
