Bangladesh is awaiting a formal response from New Delhi on Dhaka’s request to create a “propitious environment” for a possible visit by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India, with diplomatic exchanges intensifying amid a widening trust deficit between the two neighbours.
According to diplomatic sources cited in Prothom Alo, discussions between Dhaka and Delhi are ongoing, but Bangladesh will decide its next steps only after India provides a clear position. The issue has become more complex due to the presence and activities of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India. Dhaka views her public interactions — including an engagement with journalists in Delhi on 5 August — as an obstacle to rebuilding confidence.
Bangladesh has repeatedly raised concerns through official channels, stressing that India must clarify its stance on Hasina before Dhaka proceeds with Rahman’s proposed visit. Officials say the matter goes beyond her physical presence in India and touches on broader questions of political sensitivity and bilateral trust.
Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Saleh Shibli said Dhaka is waiting for India’s reply to the Foreign Ministry’s communication before further talks can take place. He confirmed that Rahman’s travel to India has not been ruled out, but noted that Bangladesh has raised two extradition demands during discussions.
Shibli stated that Bangladesh seeks the extradition of “the person who fled the country after killing thousands of people,” referring to Hasina, and another individual accused of involvement in a separate killing. These demands, he said, are central to Dhaka’s expectations from New Delhi.
The situation underscores a delicate diplomatic moment, with Bangladesh signalling that progress on Rahman’s visit depends on India’s willingness to address Dhaka’s concerns.