Bangladesh’s interim government has firmly dismissed India’s recent comments on its upcoming national elections, saying Dhaka will not accept any ‘advice’ from New Delhi. Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain stated that Bangladesh knows best how to conduct its own polls and criticized India for remaining silent during the previous 15 years of flawed elections. His remarks followed a series of diplomatic summons between the two neighbors, triggered by mutual concerns over security and political interference.

India summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner in New Delhi to express concern over what it described as a deteriorating security situation and threats to its missions in Dhaka. Earlier, Bangladesh had summoned the Indian envoy to protest alleged incitement by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who remains in India after being sentenced to death for war crimes. The closure of Indian visa centers in Dhaka and accusations of harboring extremists have further strained ties.

Observers note that the escalating rhetoric could complicate regional cooperation and election monitoring efforts. Both sides, however, have reiterated their commitment to maintaining diplomatic communication despite the current friction.