Anwar Shahadat, New York.
[Before presenting the report, we would like to clarify that we have retained the original questions raised by journalists, along with the responses provided by Ministry of External Affairs Official Spokesperson Shri Randhir Jaiswal, in order to help readers better understand the context, intent, and substance of both the questions and the official responses related to Bangladesh and other associated issues discussed during the media briefing. ]
During the Ministry of External Affairs weekly media briefing on May 12, 2026, several journalists raised questions regarding Bangladesh, including anti-India protests, illegal immigration, border security, diplomatic relations, and Bangladesh’s engagement with China. Official Spokesperson Shri Randhir Jaiswal responded to the questions on behalf of the Indian government.
Throughout the briefing, the Ministry of External Affairs maintained that India seeks a constructive relationship with Bangladesh despite recent protests, immigration concerns, and regional geopolitical developments. The spokesperson repeatedly emphasized ongoing engagement, cooperation, and dialogue between the two countries on issues ranging from energy cooperation to migration and border management.
Anti-India Protests in Bangladesh
Journalist’s Question
Yeshi Seli of Business India referred to protests in different parts of Bangladesh where demonstrators reportedly called for a boycott of Indian products and expressed anger over the West Bengal election results. The journalist asked whether the Ministry of External Affairs had any response to these developments.
MEA Response
Official Spokesperson Shri Randhir Jaiswal said India continues to approach its relationship with Bangladesh positively. He noted that Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister had recently visited India and also mentioned participation from Bangladesh during celebrations related to the formation of the new government in Bangladesh. According to the spokesperson, these developments reflect the current direction of bilateral ties.
“We have already indicated that we are taking this relationship in a positive direction… that is the trajectory of this relationship with Bangladesh at present.”
Illegal Immigration Issue
Journalist’s Question
Kallol of The Hindu referred to comments made by Bangladesh’s Deputy Foreign Minister Shama Obaed regarding Bangladesh’s “zero tolerance” policy toward illegal immigration to Europe. The journalist asked whether India expects Bangladesh to apply the same policy concerning illegal immigration into India.
MEA Response
Randhir Jaiswal said illegal immigration remains an active subject of discussion between India and Bangladesh. He stated that India has over the years requested Bangladesh to verify the nationality of more than 2,860 individuals believed to be Bangladeshi nationals residing illegally in India.
“We are yet to get a response on this particular matter.”
The spokesperson described the issue as an ongoing bilateral concern under discussion between the two countries.
Bangladesh’s Engagement With China
Journalist’s Question
Senior journalist Gautam Lahiri referred to Bangladesh Foreign Minister’s visit to China and the reported decision to offer certain infrastructure or development-related projects to China, allegedly reversing an earlier policy position. He asked whether such developments would help build mutual trust between India and Bangladesh.
MEA Response
The spokesperson avoided directly criticizing Bangladesh’s engagement with China but stated that India closely monitors international developments and diplomatic engagements in the region.
“India’s relations with its neighboring countries stand on their own, keeping in view of our mutual interest.”
He added that India continues to assess regional developments through diplomatic channels while maintaining bilateral ties based on mutual interests.
India’s Fuel and Energy Supplies to Bangladesh
Journalist’s Question
BBC journalist Jugal asked for an update on India’s assistance to neighboring countries, particularly regarding fuel and fertilizer supplies, and whether India’s approach toward such support had changed.
MEA Response
Randhir Jaiswal said India continues to supply energy products to neighboring countries, including Bangladesh. He specifically mentioned the India-Bangladesh high-speed diesel friendship pipeline.
According to the spokesperson:
• India has been supplying diesel to Bangladesh through the friendship pipeline.
• Bangladesh made additional requests for fuel supplies.
• India has either fulfilled or is in the process of fulfilling those requests.
He emphasized that India continues supporting neighboring countries with essential supplies.
“We continue to support our neighboring countries with their supplies.”
India-Bangladesh Border Security and Fencing
Journalist’s Question
Agni from ABP referred to the approval of land for India-Bangladesh border fencing by the newly elected West Bengal Chief Minister and asked whether this could affect India-Bangladesh diplomatic relations.
MEA Response
The spokesperson gave a brief response, saying border security remains a priority for India.
“Border security is a priority for us and that is how we look at it.”
No further diplomatic implications were discussed during the briefing.
