Bangladesh has formally written to India expressing concerns over recent "push-in" incidents along the border, calling on New Delhi to honor existing agreements and not act beyond agreed norms, said Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain on Wednesday.

Addressing reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hossain emphasized that while India has communicated part of its position, Bangladesh has made it clear that such unilateral actions are unacceptable.

“We don’t expect a reply within a day,” the advisor stated. “They’ve shared some names with us. We are currently verifying those through the home ministry. Any return or handover must follow proper procedures.”

The advisor made it clear that Bangladesh is maintaining communication with India to ensure that no steps are taken outside the framework of established bilateral protocols.

When asked whether Rohingya refugees allegedly pushed into Bangladesh would be returned in a similar manner, Hossain replied, “So far, no clear decision has been made. But if anyone is proven to be an Indian national, they must be taken back.”

In light of the incidents, the interim government has initiated a review of past agreements with India. While several small-scale agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed over the years, Hossain said no agreement has been cancelled as of now.

He explained that any cancellations would require mutual consent or must fall under provisions allowing unilateral withdrawal. “We want everything to proceed according to the rules. Let’s see how much we can do,” he added.

Responding to whether India has violated the terms of any agreements, Hossain noted the complexities involved in interpreting bilateral rules. “Rules can be interpreted in different ways. One might read them positively or negatively at times. No one ever admits they are violating rules,” he remarked.

The foreign affairs advisor also confirmed that Dhaka had sent a letter to Delhi regarding the recent suspension of exports through land ports, indicating growing diplomatic unease between the neighboring nations over border management and trade conduct.

The development comes amid rising tensions and calls for clarity on repatriation procedures and the handling of displaced populations.
 

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