The killing of a man from a minority community during recent violent protests in Bangladesh has pushed already strained relations between Dhaka and Delhi into a deeper crisis, raising concerns that the two neighbours’ once close ties may be fraying beyond repair.
The victim, Dipu Chandra Das (27), a garment factory worker from Bangladesh’s minority community, was accused of blasphemy and beaten to death by a mob last week in Mymensingh, northern Bangladesh. The incident occurred amid violent protests triggered by the murder of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent student leader, in Dhaka.
Hadi’s supporters alleged that the main suspect in his killing—whom they claim has links to the Awami League, the party of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina—had fled to India, fuelling anti-India sentiment in Muslim-majority Bangladesh. However, Bangladeshi police have said there is no confirmation that the suspect left the country.
The episode has sparked protests in India by minority nationalist groups and led both countries to suspend visa services in several cities, accuse each other of failing to protect diplomatic missions, and summon each other’s high commissioners over security concerns.
Former Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka Riva Ganguly Das warned that the situation remains volatile and unpredictable, urging both sides to prevent further escalation.
Anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh has intensified since Hasina sought refuge in India following her ouster last year, with Delhi declining multiple requests from Dhaka to extradite her. In recent weeks, protesters attempted to march toward the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, while the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chittagong was attacked with stones. Although 12 people were detained, they were later released without charge.
Bangladesh has also objected strongly to protests held outside its diplomatic mission in Delhi, calling them “unjustifiable.”
The brutal killing of Das—whose body was reportedly tied to a tree and set on fire—has caused widespread outrage after videos circulated on social media. Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, condemned the violence and vowed accountability. Police say 12 suspects have been arrested.
Analysts warn that the incident has renewed fears over the safety of minorities and civil society activists in Bangladesh, as religious fundamentalist groups become increasingly assertive. Human rights organisations have raised alarms over rising mob violence, attacks on minorities, and restrictions on cultural activities.
Political analyst Asif Bin Ali warned that branding critics as “pro-India” has created a dangerous narrative that legitimises violence against individuals and institutions.
With national elections scheduled for 12 February, experts say an elected government would be better placed to restore stability and manage relations with India. Until then, both sides caution that rising street anger must not be allowed to further damage bilateral ties.
Source: BBC
