Bangladeshi coalition July Oikya has issued a 72-hour ultimatum to the Indian government, demanding an explanation for a statement by India’s Ministry of External Affairs that described its recent ‘March to Indian High Commission’ protest as an extremist movement. The ultimatum was announced at an emergency press conference held at Dhaka University’s Madhur Canteen, where organizers condemned the Indian characterization as a violation of diplomatic norms and an affront to democratic rights.
July Oikya, a coalition of over 100 social, cultural, and political groups, accused India of undermining Bangladesh’s sovereignty and shielding individuals allegedly involved in past human rights abuses. Group leader A.B. Zubair called for Indian High Commissioner Pranay Kumar Verma to be declared persona non grata under the Vienna Convention, citing loss of diplomatic trust. The coalition also announced nationwide protests in Chattogram, Barishal, and Sylhet on December 19.
If the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry fails to seek clarification from New Delhi within the deadline, July Oikya warned it will march to the ministry on December 23 to submit a memorandum. The standoff adds new strain to Bangladesh–India relations amid ongoing regional political sensitivities.