Responding to the development, former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Veena Sikri described the move by Bangladesh as unnecessary. She asserted that illegal immigration from Bangladesh into India remains a real and ongoing issue that both nations must openly acknowledge and address. Emphasising the need for constructive engagement, she called for proper bilateral dialogue to resolve the matter.
Sikri recalled that concerns regarding cross-border migration were previously recognised during the tenure of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. She further noted that stricter enforcement measures implemented in India in recent years have led to some migrants returning to Bangladesh, indicating the impact of policy actions on ground realities.
Former diplomat KP Fabian offered a measured perspective, stating that Bangladesh’s decision to summon the Indian envoy was understandable in the diplomatic context. However, he stressed that remarks related to foreign policy should be articulated through India’s Ministry of External Affairs, underscoring the importance of maintaining consistency and discipline in official communication.
The episode highlights the sensitivity of India-Bangladesh relations, particularly on the issue of illegal immigration, and underscores the necessity for both sides to rely on formal diplomatic mechanisms to address contentious matters while preserving bilateral stability.
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