Bangladesh Condemns Agartala Mission Breach, Calls for Enhanced Security

Bangladesh has strongly condemned the breach of its Assistant High Commission in Agartala, Tripura, expressing grave concern over the incident and calling for urgent measures to ensure the safety of its diplomatic missions in India.

The breach occurred on December 2, 2024, when members of the Hindu Sangharsh Samiti stormed the mission, removed the Bangladeshi national flag, and caused property damage. The protesters were reportedly agitating against the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das, a Bangladeshi community leader, for allegedly insulting the national flag of Bangladesh during a rally in Chittagong.

In a statement, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the attack as “premeditated” and criticized the security lapse that allowed protesters to forcibly enter the diplomatic premises. “The accounts received conclusively attest that the protesters were allowed to aggress into the premises by breaking down the main gate of Bangladesh Assistant High Commission in a pre-planned manner,” it said, adding that the incident has heightened insecurity among its diplomatic staff in India.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed regret over the incident, reiterating its commitment to safeguarding the sanctity of diplomatic premises. “Diplomatic and consular properties should not be targeted under any circumstances. The government is taking action to step up security arrangements for the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi and its Deputy/Assistant High Commissions in the country,” the MEA stated.

Despite the assurances, the incident has highlighted the vulnerability of Bangladeshi missions in India amid strained bilateral relations following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in August 2024.

Tensions have been rising between the two neighbors, with mutual concerns over the safety of diplomatic missions. In recent months, India has scaled back its diplomatic operations in Bangladesh amid escalating protests and security concerns. Similarly, Bangladeshi missions in India have faced threats, with the Agartala breach further underscoring the need for stronger protective measures.

Bangladesh has called for an independent investigation and urged India to ensure such breaches are not repeated. Both countries are expected to engage in diplomatic talks to address these incidents and restore mutual trust.