How did the relationship of best friend get spoiled, how will the friendship happen again?

India-Bangladesh Relation: Tensions have been deepening in the relations between India and Bangladesh since former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took refuge in India. Hasina had to leave Bangladesh due to massive anti-government protests in August. After her arrival in India, bitterness is being seen in the decades-old friendship between the two countries.

Important issues raised in the meeting of Foreign Secretaries

The first meeting of the Foreign Secretaries of India and Bangladesh was held in New Delhi on Monday. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri expressed his concern over the attacks on minorities and cases of violence against the Hindu community in Bangladesh. He termed these incidents as 'regrettable' and stressed the need for stable and peaceful relations between the two countries.

On the other hand, Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Mohammad Jashimuddin termed it as 'misleading and incorrect information'. He said, "Bangladesh will not tolerate any kind of interference in its internal affairs."

Role of media and negative campaign

Jashimuddin raised the issue of 'misleading reporting' by the Indian media on the alleged violence against minorities in Bangladesh. He urged India to rein in this and stop negative campaigning.

"We expect India to play an active role in restoring trust between our people," he said.

India's stance and talks with Mohammad Yunus

India made it clear that it favours positive and constructive relations with Bangladesh. Misri met the head of the interim government of Bangladesh Mohammad Yunus and reiterated India's support for a democratic, stable, and inclusive Bangladesh.

Yunus also emphasised on strengthening India-Bangladesh relations but he also said that Sheikh Hasina's statements from India have increased tensions in Bangladesh.

Teesta water treaty and trade barriers

The Teesta water sharing agreement and renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty were also discussed in the meeting. Bangladesh urged India to remove import-export barriers, while India called for equitable use of shared water resources.

Attacks on minorities and their impact

In recent weeks, attacks on the Hindu community in Bangladesh and vandalism of temples have further strained relations between the two countries. The incident of protesters entering the Bangladesh Deputy High Commission in Agartala, Tripura has also complicated the situation.

Hope for improvement in relations

However, both sides have expressed hope to resolve the issues with mutual trust and respect. Bangladesh has expressed hope for progress on the Teesta Water Agreement and India's positive attitude on the renewal of the Ganges Water Treaty.

Conclusion

Sheikh Hasina's refuge in India and the ongoing events in Bangladesh have led to deep diplomatic tensions between the two countries. Despite this, both sides have vowed to resolve disputes through dialogue and restore old friendly relations. There is still a possibility of improvement in relations between India and Bangladesh in the coming months.