Staff Reporter :
Amid growing diplomatic tensions between Bangladesh and India, Foreign Affairs Adviser Muhammad Touhid Hossain criticised the role of
the Indian media, asserting that their portrayal of recent events in Bangladesh is obstructing efforts to normalise relations between the two countries.
Speaking at a seminar titled “Bangladesh-India Relations: Expectations, Challenges, and the Future” at North South University, Hossain voiced concern over the Indian media’s approach.
He urged Bangladeshi media to counter what he described as false narratives by firmly presenting factual accounts to safeguard the nation’s interests.
Hossain highlighted Bangladesh’s previous efforts to resolve various unresolved issues with India, acknowledging, however, that certain challenges remain. He expressed optimism that India would recognise the changing dynamics in Bangladesh and respond accordingly, noting that diplomatic relations naturally involve obstacles and require mutual adjustments.
A key focus of his speech was the issue of border killings. Hossain criticised India’s handling of the matter, stating that no country has the right to shoot suspected offenders at the border. He called on Indian authorities to detain suspects and hand them over to law enforcement for prosecution in accordance with the law.
The seminar featured a panel of distinguished speakers, including Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, Joint Member Secretary of the AB Party; former diplomat Saqib Ali; former Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division, Lieutenant General (Retd.) Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman; Vice Chancellor of Manarat International University, Professor Dr Mohammad Abdur Rob; and BNP Vice Chairman Dr SM Asaduzzaman Ripon.
The event was presided over by North South University Vice Chancellor, Professor Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, and moderated by Associate Professor Dr M. Jasim Uddin from the Department of Political Science and Sociology.
Participants discussed the complexities of Bangladesh-India relations, stressing the importance of mutual respect, resolving long-standing issues, and working collaboratively to counter misinformation while strengthening bilateral ties.
