24 september 2024 : Following Home Minister Amit Shah’s comments criticizing the ruling JMM-led coalition in Jharkhand for allegedly allowing “rampant infiltration” from Bangladesh, the Bangladesh foreign ministry lodged a formal protest with the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on Monday. Shah had warned that if unchecked, illegal immigrants could become the majority in Jharkhand within the next 25-30 years.
During a speech in Jharkhand, Shah stated, “Tell me if this land belongs to tribals or Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators. No one can save Jharkhand, neither the JMM nor the Congress. Only Prime Minister Narendra Modi can save it.” He urged citizens to vote for a government that would expel illegal immigrants rather than support them.
In the protest note, the Bangladesh government called on Indian authorities to advise their political leaders to avoid making such derogatory and unacceptable comments. The note was delivered to Indian Deputy High Commissioner Pawan Badhe and expressed serious concerns, hurt feelings, and strong displeasure regarding Shah’s remarks. The Bangladesh foreign ministry emphasized that comments like these from individuals in responsible positions jeopardize the spirit of mutual respect and understanding between the two neighboring countries.
