India must take back verified citizens, says Touhid on push-in
PARBATTA NEWS DESK
Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain has said that individuals identified as Indian citizens must be taken back by India.
His comments come amid reports that people, including Rohingya refugees, are being pushed into Bangladesh from across the Indian border.
Speaking at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Dhaka on Wednesday, Hossain said there was no clear decision yet on whether Bangladesh would push them back.
“We generally do not conduct pushbacks,” he said. “But those who are proven to be Indian citizens must be taken back.”
Ongoing communication with Delhi
Asked whether Dhaka had sent a formal letter to Delhi about the issue, the adviser confirmed that communication was ongoing.
“We are in contact with Delhi and are working to ensure nothing happens outside the rules,” he said.
Responding to questions on India’s reaction so far, Hossain said a response was not expected immediately. “They have indicated part of their position. We have made our stance clear — that this kind of push-in is not acceptable.”
He added that India had sent a list of individuals, which is now being reviewed by Bangladesh’s Ministry of Home Affairs.
Reviewing bilateral agreements
On whether Bangladesh is reviewing existing agreements with India, Hossain said several small agreements and memoranda of understanding have been signed over the years.
“Any agreement must be cancelled through mutual consent, or based on provisions that allow objection by either party. So far, we have not cancelled any agreements. We want to move forward by following proper procedures.”
He added that Bangladesh is assessing its position on the agreements and will raise concerns with India at an appropriate time.
“Rules open to interpretation”
When asked whether India had violated any agreements, the adviser replied: “Rules can be interpreted in many ways — positively or negatively. We are proceeding accordingly. No one ever admits to violating the rules.”
Regarding the suspension of ready-made garment exports through Indian land ports, Hossain said a letter is being sent, and that the matter is being handled by the Commerce Adviser.
