India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has rejected Bangladesh’s claims that Awami League (AL) leaders in exile are carrying out political activities from Indian territory. Responding to Dhaka’s statement urging New Delhi to shut down alleged AL offices in Kolkata and New Delhi, the MEA said it was “unaware of any such activities” and maintained that India does not permit foreign political groups to operate against the interests of their home country.
MEA’s Response Addressing reporters, an MEA spokesperson clarified that India remains committed to respecting the sovereignty of Bangladesh and to ensuring that its soil is not used for activities targeting another state. “We are not aware of any offices or campaigns being run by Awami League members in India. Any such speculation is baseless,” the official said.
Backdrop of Dhaka’s Concern The rebuttal comes a day after Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry released a strongly worded statement demanding that India immediately close down any AL party offices and prevent exiled Bangladeshi nationals from engaging in anti-Dhaka activities. The statement warned that such developments could strain bilateral ties and “trigger public sentiment” within Bangladesh.
The Awami League in Exile Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ousted during the July 2024 uprising, fled to India on August 5, 2024. Subsequent media reports suggested that dozens of senior AL leaders had relocated to Delhi and Kolkata, with some reports claiming up to 1,300 leaders and affiliates were in exile globally. Dhaka has banned the party under the Anti-Terrorism Act and sought Hasina’s extradition, but India has not yet responded formally to that request.
Relations Under Strain The exchange underscores the fragile state of India–Bangladesh relations since Hasina’s government fell. While New Delhi had traditionally been one of the Awami League’s strongest allies, the interim administration in Dhaka has taken a tougher stance, insisting that India must not shelter or allow political activities of the ousted party.
What Lies Ahead Analysts say India’s measured denial indicates a desire to avoid escalation while keeping diplomatic channels open. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how both sides navigate the sensitive issue, particularly as Dhaka pushes for Hasina’s extradition and seeks stronger assurances of non-interference.
