Bhubaneswar: Bangladesh has once again descended into turmoil, with large-scale violence, arson attacks on media houses and rising political unrest pushing the country towards what observers describe as a state of near anarchy. The situation has triggered serious concern in New Delhi, prompting India to summon the Bangladeshi envoy and issue a strong protest over the deteriorating security environment.
Over the past few hours, anti-India Islamist groups have taken control of street protests in several parts of Bangladesh. The unrest intensified following the death of an anti-India student leader, who succumbed to gunshot injuries six days after being shot. His death has been used as a rallying point by radical groups, further inflaming tensions.
Media Houses Targeted, Newspapers Set Ablaze
In a disturbing escalation, media institutions have been directly targeted. Two of the country’s largest newspapers were reportedly set on fire, along with attacks on other prominent media houses. Journalists’ associations have condemned the violence, warning that press freedom in Bangladesh is under direct assault.
Cultural and intellectual spaces have also come under attack, signalling what analysts describe as an attempt to silence dissenting voices and reshape the national narrative.
Communal Violence and Lynching Reported
The unrest has also taken a communal turn, with reports confirming that a Hindu man was lynched amid the chaos. Minority groups have expressed deep fear, recalling past episodes of targeted violence during periods of political instability in the country.
India Raises Strong Protest
India has summoned the Bangladeshi envoy to lodge a formal protest over the worsening security situation, particularly around Indian diplomatic missions and residences of Indian diplomats. New Delhi has expressed grave concern over reports of protesters attempting to march towards the India–Bangladesh border in West Bengal, raising fears of cross-border instability.
A senior official said India is closely monitoring developments and has urged Bangladesh to ensure the safety of minorities, media personnel and diplomatic establishments.
Strategic Alarm in New Delhi
A parliamentary panel led by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has warned that the unfolding crisis in Bangladesh could emerge as India’s most serious strategic challenge since 1971, the year Bangladesh was created with decisive support from the Indian Army.
The warning comes just days after India commemorated Vijay Diwas, marking the historic victory that led to Bangladesh’s independence. Analysts note that extremist elements in Bangladesh are now actively attempting to erase or undermine that shared history, fuelling anti-India sentiment.
Sheikh Hasina’s Status Clarified
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who remains in India, continues to be a focal point of political rhetoric in Dhaka. However, India’s Foreign Secretary has clarified before a parliamentary panel that the Government of India does not facilitate or support any political activities by Hasina on Indian soil.
Uncertain Days Ahead
With violence spreading, institutions under attack and extremist forces dominating the streets, the situation in Bangladesh remains volatile. Regional security experts warn that prolonged instability could have serious consequences not only for Bangladesh’s democratic fabric but also for India’s eastern security and neighbourhood stability.
As the crisis deepens, the international community and regional stakeholders are watching closely, amid growing fears that Bangladesh may be entering one of its most turbulent phases in decades.
-OdishaAge
