During a media interaction, Himanta Biswa Sarma spoke about the challenges of deporting alleged illegal Bangladeshi migrants through formal diplomatic channels; and said individuals were often “pushed back” across the border under the cover of darkness at locations where Bangladeshi border forces are not present

Bangladesh has summoned India’s acting High Commissioner in Dhaka, Pawan Badhe, to lodge a protest over remarks made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on the alleged “pushback” of Bangladeshi nationals across the border.

According to a report in Dhaka Tribune, the Bangladeshi Ministry of Foreign Affairs called in the Indian envoy on April 30 and conveyed Dhaka’s “deep displeasure” over the comments, describing them as “disparaging” and potentially harmful to the spirit of friendly relations between the two countries.

The protest follows Sarma’s recent remarks during a media interaction, where he spoke about the challenges of deporting alleged illegal Bangladeshi migrants through formal diplomatic channels. He suggested that instead of formal processes involving the Ministry of External Affairs, individuals were often “pushed back” across the border under the cover of darkness at locations where Bangladeshi border forces are not present.

Dhaka conveyed that such statements undermine mutual trust and emphasised the need for restraint while addressing sensitive bilateral issues, particularly those relating to border management and migration.

Officials familiar with the meeting said Bangladesh also stressed the importance of maintaining constructive engagement and avoiding rhetoric that could inflame public sentiment or complicate diplomatic relations.

The controversy comes at a time when India and Bangladesh have been attempting to stabilise ties following a period of political churn in Dhaka, making the episode diplomatically significant despite being triggered by remarks at the state level.