Dhaka, Bangladesh – The Bangladeshi government has summoned the Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka, Pranay Verma, amid rising tensions between the two neighbors ahead of crucial national elections scheduled for February 12, 2026. This marks the first national election since the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed.
According to sources within the Bangladeshi Foreign Ministry, Verma was summoned to address concerns regarding alleged attempts to destabilize Bangladesh in the lead-up to the polls. Officials expressed apprehension over what they described as “provocative” statements made by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed, now residing in India.
Bangladeshi officials contend that Wazed’s statements are designed to undermine the electoral process and incite her supporters to violence. Furthermore, accusations have surfaced alleging that members of Wazed’s Awami League party, currently based in India, are “plotting and organizing terrorist acts” within Bangladesh with the aim of disrupting the upcoming elections.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs has vehemently denied these allegations, issuing a statement asserting that India has never allowed its territory to be used for activities detrimental to the interests of the “friendly” people of Bangladesh.
The political climate in Bangladesh remains highly charged. In November 2025, the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh sentenced Sheikh Hasina Wazed to death after convicting her of crimes against humanity related to protests in July 2024. These protests resulted in numerous fatalities and arrests, contributing to an unprecedented escalation of political tensions within the country. The Awami League, under Sheikh Hasina’s leadership, secured a significant victory in the previous elections held in January 2024, winning 222 out of 298 parliamentary seats.
The summoning of the Indian High Commissioner underscores the growing unease and mistrust between Bangladesh and India as the election date draws near. The situation warrants close monitoring as any further deterioration in relations could have significant implications for regional stability.
