Bangladesh Rejects India’s Claim of Security Threat Over Diplomats’ Families Recall
January 28, 2026
Bangladesh on Wednesday said there is no security threat to justify India’s move to recall family members of its diplomats in Dhaka. India had asked families to return home, citing rising extremist activity ahead of Bangladesh’s general elections. Md Touhid Hossain, Bangladesh’s foreign affairs Adviser, said, "There is no situation here that would indicate danger (for Indian diplomats)." He added that Bangladesh had not been formally informed of any security concerns by India.
Hossain called India’s decision an internal matter. He said, "It is entirely their internal matter. They (India) can ask their officials or families to leave at any time." Bangladesh has no objection if families leave, he said. Hossain, who was Bangladesh’s deputy high commissioner to India, said he could not find a clear reason for the move. "Perhaps they have some apprehension or want to convey a message, but I cannot identify any clear reason," he said.
India had last week advised families of its diplomats and officials to return home before elections, due on February 12. The move followed fears of extremist activity and recent anti-India protests. India operates its High Commission in Dhaka and diplomatic posts in Khulna, Chattogram, Rajshahi, and Sylhet. Despite the recall, all Indian missions in Bangladesh are fully operational. The Indian High Commission even held a Republic Day reception.
An Indian official said the recall is a precautionary step given the security situation and assured that missions remain open and functional. "It’s for the time being and will be reviewed later," the official said. In the region, Indian diplomats in Afghanistan are not allowed family postings, and those in Pakistan usually avoid family postings due to past security concerns.
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Bangladesh
India
Diplomatic Families
Security concerns
Elections
Extremism
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