PM Tarique Rahman’s trip stalled: What it means for Bangladesh-India ties | Sheikh Hasina
New Delhi, India — The planned visit of Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India has been postponed, underscoring the strained relations between the two South Asian countries following a student-led uprising in July 2024 that resulted in Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fleeing to India.
Since taking office in February, Rahman, the son of the late Khaleda Zia—Hasina’s political adversary—has expressed intentions to strengthen ties with India. However, a recent press conference by Hasina, who is currently in exile in India, has aggravated tensions. The government in Dhaka stated that the August 5 press conference has “vitiated” the atmosphere and emphasized the need for a “propitious environment” for Rahman’s visit.
The uncertainty surrounding the trip persists as Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that officials from both nations have been engaged in discussions for several weeks to find a resolution.
Invitation and Diplomatic Discussions
India had invited Rahman for a visit this month, anticipated before the BRICS summit slated for September. Since Rahman assumed office, there have been multiple exchanges between senior officials from both sides. Recently, India appointed Dinesh Trivedi, a former minister and member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party, as its envoy to Dhaka—a notable political appointment.
Last week, Trivedi addressed Rahman’s government, stating that India is not asking Bangladesh to “forget the past.” He encouraged the country to “keep the past and sort out the differences” while moving forward. At an Indian High Commission reception in Dhaka, Trivedi reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s desire for Rahman’s visit to be “memorable.”
However, plans for the visit deteriorated after Dhaka expressed displeasure over Hasina’s virtual address at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club in New Delhi, where she marked two years of her ouster. India clarified its lack of involvement in the event, but the explanation did not pacify concerns in Bangladesh.
Official Statements and Future Relations
Both India and Bangladesh have been reticent regarding the visit. Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal remarked, “I have nothing to say right now,” when questioned about the trip. Speaking at an event on Saturday, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar highlighted that bilateral ties must serve the “test of mutual interest” for both nations.
Humayun Kabir, Rahman’s foreign affairs adviser, indicated that there is “no rush” for the trip and that Dhaka is still assessing what kind of relationship India seeks with the new Bangladeshi government. He mentioned the importance of recognizing the context of the July Mass Uprising, which he noted claimed the lives of more than 1,500 people, and referred to India’s delayed response regarding Hasina’s alleged extradition.
Earlier this month, India stated it is reviewing the extradition request for Hasina, who was sentenced to death in absentia in November 2025. The countries share an extradition treaty, although exceptions exist for political cases.
Areas of Tension
The prospect of Hasina’s extradition represents a significant point of contention. Her previous administration enjoyed close ties with India, which many in Bangladesh accuse of supporting her government despite its authoritarian measures.
Bangladesh has reiterated its demand for Hasina’s return, stating on August 16, “We have requested Indian authorities to expeditiously act on our request to extradite Sheikh Hasina and other fugitive criminals.” The foreign ministry also reaffirmed its commitment to a “Bangladesh First” policy, promoting bilateral relations grounded in mutual respect and non-interference.
The shift in relations has been exacerbated by concerns that Bangladesh is moving closer to Pakistan, marking a diplomatic setback for India, which played a pivotal role in Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan in 1971. Commentators note that domestic politics in Bangladesh significantly influence its foreign policy.
In recent years, India’s efforts to fortify its 4,096-kilometer border with Bangladesh and the deportation of individuals described as undocumented immigrants have strained diplomatic relations further.
Looking Ahead
Experts warn that both nations must engage in meaningful dialogue to enhance their relationship. Sanjay Bhardwaj, a professor of South Asian studies, noted Rahman’s cautious approach toward the visit appears politically motivated. He urged both capitals to prioritize a productive bilateral partnership beyond contentious issues like Hasina’s extradition.
Sreeradha Datta, a professor specializing in South Asian studies, emphasized the necessity for dialogue, stating, “As neighbours, they do not have a choice to disengage.” She noted that initial warmth between the two countries has been overshadowed by rising nationalistic sentiments.
As India and Bangladesh navigate these complex relations, observers highlight the need for mutual respect and cooperation moving forward.
