Bangladesh Chief Adviser Yunus Blames India For Strained Ties, Pushes For SAARC Revival

Speaking on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus said Dhaka’s relations with New Delhi are strained because India opposed last year’s student protests that led to the removal of former premier Sheikh Hasina, reported NDTV.

Yunus also discussed reviving SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), proposing Bangladesh as a bridge for regional trade and ocean access.

“We have problems with India right now because they didn't like what the students have done,” Yunus said.

He also accused Indian media of spreading “fake” reports.

“A lot of fake news is coming from India, propaganda that it's an Islamist movement,” he added.

Yunus further alleged, “India is hosting Hasina, who has created problems…that creates tension between India and Bangladesh.”

Since August last year’s student uprising, India has repeatedly raised concerns over anti-India rhetoric and threats toward its northeast, alongside a rise in attacks on minorities, particularly Hindus.

The Yunus administration has dismissed these concerns, contributing to worsening ties.

On SAARC, Yunus accused India of blocking cooperation: “SAARC is not working because it doesn't fit into the politics of one country.”

He also expressed Bangladesh’s interest in joining ASEAN to boost development.

Yunus told US officials, including Sergio Gor, that regional cooperation needs reform.

Meanwhile, New Delhi has shifted focus toward BIMSTEC, excluding Pakistan, citing security concerns.

On elections, Yunus assured, his interim government is making comprehensive preparations to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful general election in the first half of February 2025, giving hope to Bangladesh’s 126 million voters after 15 years without a genuine democratic process.

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