Experts view talks between the foreign secretaries of Bangladesh and India earlier this week as a positive development amid soaring diplomatic tensions.
The political upheaval in Bangladesh on August 5 has led to a widening political rift and erosion of trust between Dhaka and New Delhi, with observers noting that India – its government, politicians and media – appears reluctant to accept the fall of the Sheikh Hasina regime.
This sentiment has been reflected in negative remarks by Indian officials and politicians, as well as disinformation and propaganda about Bangladesh in Indian media.
Former diplomats argue that differences between neighbouring countries are natural, and dialogue remains the only way to address and mitigate these issues.
Following the discussions in Dhaka on Monday, Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin and his Indian counterpart, Vikram Misri, emphasized the intent to work together.
However, the outcome of these discussions will depend on how cooperation evolves in the coming days.
A former diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity, said both secretaries had addressed the media post-talks, indicating productive discussions.
India had expressed readiness to work with the interim government, while Bangladesh had highlighted its concerns, they mentioned.
“It is premature to assess the entire situation based on one meeting. The behaviour of the two countries and the international community’s reactions in the coming days will be key.”
Another former diplomat said while multiple areas of cooperation existed between the two nations, discussions on many of these issues remained stalled. “If stalled initiatives resume, it will signal a sincere effort to strengthen ties.”
Bilateral mechanisms in focus
Bangladesh and India have over 80 bilateral mechanisms addressing issues such as water, connectivity, borders, security, defence and consular services.
These platforms usually facilitate 40 to 50 meetings annually – roughly two to three per month.
However, since August 5, only three to four meetings have taken place in four months.
A former diplomat pointed out that despite the available platforms for dialogue, the frequency of meetings had significantly dropped since August.
If the number of meetings gradually increased, it would indicate improving communication and cooperation, they added.
Another diplomat said resuming normal visa services for Bangladeshis could serve as a positive signal from India.
Political dynamics in India
Sheikh Hasina’s tenure fostered broad acceptance across Indian political, academic and media circles.
Since her departure, negative rhetoric against Bangladesh has surged in India, prompting pushback from various quarters in Dhaka.
A former diplomat said that ahead of Indian elections, anti-Bangladesh sentiment often featured prominently in states bordering Bangladesh, such as West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Tripura and Assam.
“These sentiments, frequently driven by Hindu nationalist groups, often centre on ‘Bangladeshi infiltrators’ or the ‘Hindu card.’
"There were no elections in India on or after August 5. The use of the Bangladesh or Hindu card now indicates a positive inclination toward Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League. What is notable here is that even those opposed to the BJP in India are engaging in negative propaganda about Bangladesh."
The diplomat said the quicker India adjusted to the political changes in Dhaka, the sooner normal relations between the two nations would be restored.