India Orders Diplomats' Families to Leave Bangladesh Amid Rising Security Threats

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India has taken a drastic security measure by declaring Bangladesh a 'non-family' posting for its diplomats due to growing concerns over their safety. Although the country's five diplomatic missions will continue operating at full strength, the Indian government has advised the families of officials at the high commission and four assistant high commissions to return to India. The move, which has been in the pipeline for some time, is a precautionary measure taken in response to increasing threats from extremist and radical elements. Sources close to the matter claim that the Indian government is particularly concerned about the freedom provided to Pakistani elements by the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. The 'non-family' posting is one of the most stringent security measures for Indian diplomats, with only spouses being allowed to join officials in postings like Pakistan. The decision is a reflection of the deteriorating relations between India and Bangladesh, which have reached an all-time low since the caretaker administration assumed office in August 2024. Despite the tensions, India has reached out to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), which is expected to emerge as the single largest party in the general election scheduled for February 12. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently represented India at the funeral of former premier and BNP chief Khaleda Zia, in an effort to improve relations with the party. The Indian government's decision to order diplomats' families to leave Bangladesh is a significant development in the already strained relations between the two countries. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this move will impact the diplomatic ties between India and Bangladesh.