Bangladesh protests Amit Shah's 'infiltrators' comment in Jharkhand

The Bangladeshi government has formally protested against remarks made by India's Union Home Minister Amit Shah during a recent election rally in Jharkhand. Shah's comments suggested that if the BJP were to gain power, they would take extreme measures against Bangladeshi 'infiltrators,' which he claimed were increasing under the current government. This statement has been met with significant backlash from Bangladesh, which described the remarks as 'highly deplorable' and damaging to the relationship between the two nations. In response to Shah's comments, Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a protest note to India's Deputy High Commissioner in Dhaka. The ministry expressed serious reservations and a deep sense of hurt regarding the implications of Shah's statements. They emphasized the need for political leaders to avoid making such objectionable remarks, which could undermine mutual respect and understanding. The context of Shah's remarks stems from the upcoming assembly elections in Jharkhand, where he criticized the ruling JMM and Congress for allegedly allowing an increase in infiltration from Bangladesh. He claimed that the situation could lead to infiltrators outnumbering the local population, particularly affecting the tribal communities in the state. Bangladesh's government has urged India to address these comments seriously, highlighting the importance of maintaining a respectful dialogue between the two countries. The incident underscores the sensitivity surrounding issues of migration and national identity in the region, and the potential for political rhetoric to escalate tensions between neighboring nations.