Bangladesh has said that India’s explanation regarding an incident involving the prime minister's adviser Dr Zahed Ur Rahman at Delhi airport was not satisfactory, describing the episode as both unfortunate and regrettable.
A spokesperson for Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, "The government was dissatisfied with the response provided by Indian authorities following the incident earlier in June.”
According to the spokesperson, Bangladesh had formally informed the Indian government through diplomatic channels that Dr Zahed Ur Rahman would lead the country’s delegation to a meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).
Despite that prior notification, the adviser was reportedly prevented from proceeding through Delhi airport while travelling to attend the regional gathering.
“The incident that occurred at Delhi airport involving him was unfortunate and regrettable,” the spokesperson said, adding that Bangladesh did not consider the explanation from the Indian side to be adequate.
The comments came in response to questions concerning remarks made by the spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs regarding the matter.
Dr Zahed Ur Rahman had been scheduled to head Bangladesh’s delegation at the IORA meeting before the airport incident disrupted his journey.
The Foreign Ministry spokesperson also addressed questions concerning recent comments by India on minority communities in Bangladesh.
He stated, “Bangladesh believes all states have an equal responsibility to ensure the safety, security and rights of every citizen, including members of minority groups living within their borders.”
Reaffirming the government’s position, the spokesperson said Bangladesh remains committed to protecting the rights of all citizens and ensuring the security of minority communities across the country.
The latest exchange highlights another sensitive issue in relations between the neighbouring countries, which continue to engage on a range of bilateral and regional matters through diplomatic channels.
