Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus recently remarked during his visit to China that the ‘Seven Sisters’ region of India is entirely landlocked, with no direct access to the sea. He further stated that Bangladesh serves as the only maritime gateway for the region, emphasizing its strategic importance for trade and urging China to explore economic opportunities there.

His statement has caused an uproar in India. Modi’s economic adviser Sanjeev Sanyal questioned the implications of Yunus’ comments on social media, stating, "What does it mean for India’s seven northeastern states to be landlocked? Democratic uprisings in Bangladesh have always been used as attacks against India." Former Indian High Commissioner Veena Sikri condemned the remarks, calling them "shocking" and reaffirming that the northeastern states are an "inseparable part of India."