India summons Bangladesh envoy, slams efforts to ‘spread negativity in ties’ | India News

NEW DELHI: After condemning the destruction of the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rehman, India summoned the acting high commissioner of Bangladesh, Nurul Islam, to express reservations about continued efforts by leaders in Dhaka to vitiate the atmosphere and spread negativity in the relationship. The govt described such attempts as regrettable.
The govt also distanced itself from remarks attributed to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, for which Dhaka had lodged a protest with India, saying these were made in her individual capacity in which India had no role to play. “Conflating this with the Government of India’s position is not going to help add positivity to bilateral relations,” said MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal.
The Indian side also conveyed that Delhi desires a positive, constructive and mutually beneficial relationship with Dhaka, which has been reiterated several times in recent high-level meetings.
“It is regrettable regular statements made by Bangladesh authorities portray India negatively, holding us responsible for internal governance issues,” he said.
These statements by Bangladesh are in fact responsible for the persistent negativity,” added the official.
“While Govt of India will make efforts for a mutually beneficial relationship, we expect that Bangladesh will reciprocate similarly without vitiating the atmosphere,” he added.
Speaking separately about the security situation in Bangladesh, following the destruction of the residence of the Bangladesh founder, Misri said, “We would also like to point out that the safety of diplomatic premises is the responsibility of the host govt, and I have no doubt that the Bangladesh authorities are fully aware of their responsibilities.”