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SINGAPORE, Aug 13 (Reuters) - An Adani Power (ADAN.NS), opens new tab coal-fired power plant under contract to sell all its output to Bangladesh can now supply the domestic market after an amendment to India's power export rules, helping the company hedge against political risks in Bangladesh.
An internal federal power ministry memo, dated Aug. 12 and seen by Reuters, amends 2018 guidelines governing generators supplying electricity "exclusively to a neighbouring country". Currently only one plant in India - Adani Power's 1,600 megawatt (MW) Godda plant in eastern Jharkhand state - is under contract to export 100% of its power to a neighbouring country.
The memo says "the government of India may permit connection of such generating station to the Indian grid to facilitate sale of power within India in case of sustained non-scheduling of full or part capacity".
The move, which happened nearly a week after longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh amid deadly protests triggered by quotas for government jobs, could also benefit future projects where all output is locked into export contracts.
Bangladesh is battling anarchy and vandalism, with a caretaker government vowing that improving law and order was its top priority.
The amendment by the Indian government also allows sale of power to the local grid if there is a delay in payments.
The conglomerate called the plant a "shining example of India-Bangladesh cooperation" in July 2023, shortly after its billionaire Chairman Gautam Adani met Hasina following full-load commissioning of the plant.
On Tuesday, an Adani Group spokesperson said the amendment would help increase the overall availability of power in India, and "help cater to the soaring electricity demand across the country."
An internal federal power ministry memo, dated Aug. 12 and seen by Reuters, amends 2018 guidelines governing generators supplying electricity "exclusively to a neighbouring country". Currently only one plant in India - Adani Power's 1,600 megawatt (MW) Godda plant in eastern Jharkhand state - is under contract to export 100% of its power to a neighbouring country.
The memo says "the government of India may permit connection of such generating station to the Indian grid to facilitate sale of power within India in case of sustained non-scheduling of full or part capacity".
The move, which happened nearly a week after longtime Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh amid deadly protests triggered by quotas for government jobs, could also benefit future projects where all output is locked into export contracts.
Bangladesh is battling anarchy and vandalism, with a caretaker government vowing that improving law and order was its top priority.
The amendment by the Indian government also allows sale of power to the local grid if there is a delay in payments.
The conglomerate called the plant a "shining example of India-Bangladesh cooperation" in July 2023, shortly after its billionaire Chairman Gautam Adani met Hasina following full-load commissioning of the plant.
On Tuesday, an Adani Group spokesperson said the amendment would help increase the overall availability of power in India, and "help cater to the soaring electricity demand across the country."
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India has lowered its development aid allocation for Bangladesh by 40% in its annual budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 placed in parliament yesterday (23 July).
This year, the Modi-administration allocated 120 crore rupees for Bangladesh, which is down by 80 crore rupees from that of the previous budget, reports The Daily Star.
A significant portion of the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) development assistance of 4,883 crore rupees for 2024-25 has been earmarked for countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan and Myanmar.
Bhutan has emerged as the highest recipient of India's aid, receiving 2,068.56 crore rupees, less than last year's 2,400 crore rupees.
The provision is for India's multilateral and bilateral aid and assistance programmes to neighbouring and other developing countries in Africa, Central Asia, South Asia and Latin America.
As per the revised estimates for FY24, the Indian government provided 6,541.79 crore rupees to foreign governments, surpassing the budget estimates of 5,848.58 crore rupees.
The estimate for FY25 is 5,667.56 crore rupees.
www.tbsnews.net
This year, the Modi-administration allocated 120 crore rupees for Bangladesh, which is down by 80 crore rupees from that of the previous budget, reports The Daily Star.
A significant portion of the Ministry of External Affairs' (MEA) development assistance of 4,883 crore rupees for 2024-25 has been earmarked for countries such as Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, Afghanistan and Myanmar.
Bhutan has emerged as the highest recipient of India's aid, receiving 2,068.56 crore rupees, less than last year's 2,400 crore rupees.
The provision is for India's multilateral and bilateral aid and assistance programmes to neighbouring and other developing countries in Africa, Central Asia, South Asia and Latin America.
As per the revised estimates for FY24, the Indian government provided 6,541.79 crore rupees to foreign governments, surpassing the budget estimates of 5,848.58 crore rupees.
The estimate for FY25 is 5,667.56 crore rupees.
India cuts development aid allocation for Bangladesh by 40%
India has lowered its development aid allocation for Bangladesh by 40% in its annual budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 placed in parliament yesterday (23 July). This year, the Modi-administration allocated 120 crore rupees for Bangladesh, which is down by 80 crore rupees from that of the...
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The India-Bangladesh Friendship pipeline (IBFP) construction project has been halted by the Indian government in the wake of the political instability in Bangladesh, says The Mint.
The pipeline will be used to transport diesel from India to Bangladesh.
Three people aware of the development said there had been a proposal to extend the 131-km pipeline beyond Parbatipur in Bangladesh, where the pipeline currently ends. However, the government has now pressed the pause button on this.
"Since the project has been operating well and has been largely successful, there was a consideration as to why not further extend it to cater to more places in the neighbouring country. Now, after the political situation somewhat destabilised, India would like to wait for the situation to stabilise for any further consideration and talks. No specific timeline can be given," said one of the people cited above.
www.tbsnews.net
The pipeline will be used to transport diesel from India to Bangladesh.
Three people aware of the development said there had been a proposal to extend the 131-km pipeline beyond Parbatipur in Bangladesh, where the pipeline currently ends. However, the government has now pressed the pause button on this.
"Since the project has been operating well and has been largely successful, there was a consideration as to why not further extend it to cater to more places in the neighbouring country. Now, after the political situation somewhat destabilised, India would like to wait for the situation to stabilise for any further consideration and talks. No specific timeline can be given," said one of the people cited above.
India halts diesel pipeline extension project citing political crisis in Bangladesh
The supply of petroleum products is crucial for Bangladesh, which is heavily dependent on diesel to power its key textile industry
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Farida Akhter, Advisor to the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, announced that no ilish fish will be exported to India for Durga Puja this year.
She also stated that the government will not import meat to protect local farmers.
During a meeting with the Fisheries and Livestock Journalists Forum (FLJF) at the Secretariat, Farida Akhter said: "Some profit-driven traders are attempting to import meat. We are committed to not importing meat to protect local farmers. We are taking steps to reduce production costs and lower meat prices. We will ensure that ilish is not exported to India this Durga Puja."
She also highlighted concerns about the import of frozen beef, stating that it could harm local livestock farmers and that any meat imported could be of poor nutritional quality due to improper processing.
Regarding issues with animal feed prices and subsidies, she assured that measures are being taken to lower feed costs and discuss agricultural subsidies with the relevant ministries.
Farida Akhter emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring fair prices for meat and the survival of local farmers.
She addressed concerns about corruption and mismanagement in veterinary hospitals and the livestock sector, stating that officials involved in corruption would face strict action.
She also mentioned that any illegal export of ilish would be prevented and promised to keep ilish prices affordable for low-income people.
Farida Akhter pointed out that syndicates and corporate traders are driving up the prices of animal feed, meat, and eggs, reports Samakal.
She assured that efforts would be made to break these syndicates and increase market supply to reduce prices. She also promised to address issues in contract farming and ensure fair practices for farmers.
In response to the damage caused by recent floods, she mentioned that a recommendation has been made to suspend loan installments for affected farmers for three months. Plans for constructing animal shelters are also being considered.
Finally, Farida Akhter called on the media to highlight the issues and potential of the fisheries and livestock sector, stating that increased media coverage would help address problems and benefit the nation.
She also stated that the government will not import meat to protect local farmers.
During a meeting with the Fisheries and Livestock Journalists Forum (FLJF) at the Secretariat, Farida Akhter said: "Some profit-driven traders are attempting to import meat. We are committed to not importing meat to protect local farmers. We are taking steps to reduce production costs and lower meat prices. We will ensure that ilish is not exported to India this Durga Puja."
She also highlighted concerns about the import of frozen beef, stating that it could harm local livestock farmers and that any meat imported could be of poor nutritional quality due to improper processing.
Regarding issues with animal feed prices and subsidies, she assured that measures are being taken to lower feed costs and discuss agricultural subsidies with the relevant ministries.
Farida Akhter emphasized that the government is committed to ensuring fair prices for meat and the survival of local farmers.
She addressed concerns about corruption and mismanagement in veterinary hospitals and the livestock sector, stating that officials involved in corruption would face strict action.
She also mentioned that any illegal export of ilish would be prevented and promised to keep ilish prices affordable for low-income people.
Farida Akhter pointed out that syndicates and corporate traders are driving up the prices of animal feed, meat, and eggs, reports Samakal.
She assured that efforts would be made to break these syndicates and increase market supply to reduce prices. She also promised to address issues in contract farming and ensure fair practices for farmers.
In response to the damage caused by recent floods, she mentioned that a recommendation has been made to suspend loan installments for affected farmers for three months. Plans for constructing animal shelters are also being considered.
Finally, Farida Akhter called on the media to highlight the issues and potential of the fisheries and livestock sector, stating that increased media coverage would help address problems and benefit the nation.
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India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged the country’s armed forces to analyse the ongoing conflicts between Israel-Hamas, Russia-Ukraine, and the current state of affairs in Bangladesh to prepare India for the “unexpected”.
He made the remarks on Thursday during a joint commanders’ conference in India’s Lucknow, according to the Indian newspaper The Telegraph.
Singh underscored the need for a thorough analysis in light of the recent circumstances in the India-China border and neighbouring countries “which are posing a challenge to peace and stability in the region”.
He also emphasised on a coordinated and proportionate response to provocation for any challenges India may face during future wars.
“Despite global volatility, India is enjoying a rare peace dividend and it is developing peacefully. However, due to the increasing number of challenges, we need to remain alert,” he was quoted as telling the commanders.
“We need to focus on our present, keep an eye on the activities happening around us at present, and focus on being future-oriented.
“For this, we should have a strong and robust national security component. We should have a fail-proof deterrence,” Singh was quoted saying.
He also highlighted the significance of using artificial intelligence to develop electronic and space warfare.
“These components do not participate in any conflict or war directly. Their indirect participation is deciding the course of warfare to a great extent,” he added.
While referring to India as a ‘peace-loving’ nation, he stressed that the Indian armed forces need to be ready for war to “preserve peace”.
His comments have stirred curious reactions in Bangladesh as they come in the context of the collapse of the government of Sheikh Hasina who has fled to India.
Former prime minister Hasina has long been regarded as one of India’s closest allies.
There has been a growing surge of anti-India sentiments and rhetoric in Bangladesh, especially since the massive July-August protests that overthrew the Hasina government.
bdnews24.com
timesofindia.indiatimes.com
He made the remarks on Thursday during a joint commanders’ conference in India’s Lucknow, according to the Indian newspaper The Telegraph.
Singh underscored the need for a thorough analysis in light of the recent circumstances in the India-China border and neighbouring countries “which are posing a challenge to peace and stability in the region”.
He also emphasised on a coordinated and proportionate response to provocation for any challenges India may face during future wars.
“Despite global volatility, India is enjoying a rare peace dividend and it is developing peacefully. However, due to the increasing number of challenges, we need to remain alert,” he was quoted as telling the commanders.
“We need to focus on our present, keep an eye on the activities happening around us at present, and focus on being future-oriented.
“For this, we should have a strong and robust national security component. We should have a fail-proof deterrence,” Singh was quoted saying.
He also highlighted the significance of using artificial intelligence to develop electronic and space warfare.
“These components do not participate in any conflict or war directly. Their indirect participation is deciding the course of warfare to a great extent,” he added.
While referring to India as a ‘peace-loving’ nation, he stressed that the Indian armed forces need to be ready for war to “preserve peace”.
His comments have stirred curious reactions in Bangladesh as they come in the context of the collapse of the government of Sheikh Hasina who has fled to India.
Former prime minister Hasina has long been regarded as one of India’s closest allies.
There has been a growing surge of anti-India sentiments and rhetoric in Bangladesh, especially since the massive July-August protests that overthrew the Hasina government.
Indian defence minister tells military to watch out for conflicts in Bangladesh, China
He emphasises the need for a proportionate response to provocation for any challenges India may face
bdnews24.com
'Be prepared for unexpected': Rajnath Singh tells Armed Forces to 'keep eye on happenings in neighbouring countries' | India News - Times of India
India News: At the Joint Commanders’ Conference, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India's need to be prepared for war to maintain peace. He emphasized j
timesofindia.indiatimes.com
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The Indian side is yet to take a call on Bangladesh's request for a meeting between interim government head Muhammad Yunus and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the margins of the UN General Assembly in New York, people familiar with the matter said on Saturday.
The people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said a meeting appears unlikely following comments by Yunus in an interview with an Indian media outlet earlier this week. Yunus's remarks had not gone down well in New Delhi, they said.
The Bangladeshi side made a formal request earlier this week for a meeting between Yunus and Modi, who will both be in New York for the UN General Assembly later this month, the people said. The Indian side is yet to decide on this request and Modi's agenda for bilateral meetings in New York is still being firmed up, they said.
In an interview this week, Yunus criticised former premier Sheikh Hasina for commenting on developments in Bangladesh while in exile in India. He suggested Bangladesh can seek her extradition and said India should move beyond the "narrative" that every political party other than Hasina's Awami League is "Islamist".
"If India wants to keep her until the time Bangladesh wants her back, the condition would be that she has to keep quiet," Yunus said. "Sitting in India, she is speaking and giving instructions. No one likes it. It's not good for us or for India."
The Bangladeshi side has told India "quite firmly" that Hasina should keep quiet as "she has been given shelter there and she is campaigning from there".
There has been no response so far from the Indian side to Yunus's remarks. However, the people cited above said such comments weren't conducive to better relations.
India's leadership has said Hasina was granted approval to come to the country at short notice after she stepped down on August 5. The external affairs ministry has declined to comment on any possible Bangladeshi request for her extradition, describing it as a hypothetical matter.
Yunus, sworn in as leader of Bangladesh's interim government three days after Hasina fled to India, spoke to Modi on phone on August 16. At the time, Modi urged Yunus to ensure the protection of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh following attacks after the ouster of the previous government.
Yunus had said Bangladesh will give priority to the security of all minorities. In recent weeks, Yunus has repeatedly described reports in the Indian media about attacks on Bangladesh's Hindus as "exaggerated".
During their phone conversation, the two leaders also discussed ways to take forward bilateral relations in line with national priorities.
www.tbsnews.net
Due to Delhi's reluctance, inter-country passenger train services on all three existing routes between Bangladesh and India have remained suspended for over a month and a half.
Although Dhaka has sent several proposals to resume the rail service, Delhi has not yet responded, according to railway officials in Bangladesh. However, after repeated efforts, India allowed freight trains to operate from 20 August.
Earlier, on 18 July, train movement was halted across the country, including cross-border services, due to a "complete shutdown" enforced by students protesting the quota system in government services.
Short-distance trains resumed on 1 August but were halted again on 3 August as protests intensified.
Freight trains resumed operation on 12 August, days after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. Mail, express, local, and commuter trains began operating on 13 August, with intercity trains resuming service on 15 August.
Despite multiple attempts by the Bangladesh Railway to resume passenger services, the Indian Railway Board has not granted permission to this end.
In this regard, Director General of Bangladesh Railway Sardar Shahadat Ali told The Business Standard on Thursday, "Freight train operations have resumed between the two countries since 20 August, but there has been no progress on passenger trains despite our repeated efforts."
He continued, "We have sent letters but have received no response from the Indian side. Therefore, we have informed the foreign ministry, which will now hold talks with India. We hope to receive updates soon."
Failing to obtain permission from the Indian Railway authorities, the Bangladesh Railway decided to address the issue through government high-ups and sent a letter to the foreign ministry on 19 August.
TBS has obtained a copy of the letter, which states that Indian Railways had been requested to send light engines from 12 August to take empty wagons from Bangladesh.
However, no light engines have been sent, nor has any action been taken to get back the empty wagons.
The letter further notes that 255 empty wagons are currently waiting at various stations, occupying yard lines and disrupting normal operations.
Additionally, while the Bangladesh Railways granted permission for loaded rakes to be sent from India to Bangladesh on 12 August via various interchange routes, no loaded trains have been dispatched.
On the same day, 19 August, the Bangladesh Railway's operations department sent a separate letter to the Indian Railways' operations department regarding the running of freight trains.
This time, Bangladesh Railway received no objections from its Indian counterpart.
As a result, from 20 August, the empty wagons stuck in Bangladesh were able to enter India, and goods wagons stuck in India were allowed to enter Bangladesh.
In the letter to the foreign ministry, the Bangladesh Railway also addressed the issue of passenger trains.
It noted that the Mithali Express (Indian rake) running between Bangladesh and India arrived at Dhaka Cantonment station from New Jalpaiguri on the night of 17 July.
The train was scheduled to depart for New Jalpaiguri on the night of 18 July but could not operate due to the unrest. The empty rake of the Mithali Express is currently stationed at Dhaka Railway Station.
The inter-country Mithali Express between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri, Maitree Express between Dhaka and Kolkata, and Bandhan Express between Khulna and Kolkata remain closed."
Finally, the letter requested the foreign ministry to take necessary measures to resume inter-country passenger train services between Bangladesh and India. However, India has yet to make a decision regarding passenger train operations.
When contacted, an official from the South Asia Wing of the foreign ministry, who wished to remain anonymous, said, "India has already permitted the operation of freight trains. Further talks with India are ongoing. India will inform us once they reach a final decision from their high authority. Nothing more can be said at this time."
On Saturday, Nahid Hasan Khan, director of public relations at Bangladesh Railway, said, "The matter will now be decided at the government level, as it is handled by the foreign ministry. They are working on it, and we have not been informed of any developments so far."
www.tbsnews.net
Bangladesh needs good relations with India, but it should be on the basis of equality and fairness, the interim government's Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said.
During a views-exchange meeting with students, the chief adviser also said he will try to revive the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), Mahfuz Alam, chief adviser's special assistant, told the media at a briefing later.
About 150 students, including those who led the recent quota reform protests, participated in the meeting at the Chief Adviser's Office on Sunday (8 September).
www.tbsnews.net
Commenting on Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's speech before his country's military urging them to analyse the situation in Bangladesh, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said he was more surprised than concerned.
"I am more surprised than concerned by his comments. I don't see any reason for such statements. We need to understand whether he said this for his own country's purposes," Hossain said during a press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today (8 September).
"I do not believe there is any possibility of conflict between our two countries under any circumstances," he added.
Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh recently urged the top commanders of the Indian Armed Forces to monitor the situation in Bangladesh and prepare for future conflicts.
Rajnath "emphasised on the need of a broader and deeper analysis by the top military leadership in view of the situation along the northern border and the happenings in neighbouring countries which are posing a challenge to peace and stability in the region," according to a Defence Ministry statement.
He made these remarks during a speech last Thursday (5 September), where he addressed the Armed Forces' Joint Commanders Conference in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
Hossain further elaborated on the issue, stating, "The way he spoke seems to be beating around the bush. I also don't see why India would need to prepare for war because of the conflict in Israel.
"It's also unclear what connection India has with the situation involving Hamas. And how Ukraine and Hamas could be compared to Bangladesh is beyond my understanding. We don't want to have any knee-jerk reaction to this. But we will certainly look into why he made such statements."
When asked if Singh's remarks pose a threat to Bangladesh, the foreign affairs adviser said, "I still believe he made this statement for some internal need. So, I don't want to speculate."
In response to a question about whether India would offer political asylum to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, Hossain said, "Any country can grant political asylum to anyone. But whether it should be done in this case is something we will consider and look into."
www.tbsnews.net
The people, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said a meeting appears unlikely following comments by Yunus in an interview with an Indian media outlet earlier this week. Yunus's remarks had not gone down well in New Delhi, they said.
The Bangladeshi side made a formal request earlier this week for a meeting between Yunus and Modi, who will both be in New York for the UN General Assembly later this month, the people said. The Indian side is yet to decide on this request and Modi's agenda for bilateral meetings in New York is still being firmed up, they said.
In an interview this week, Yunus criticised former premier Sheikh Hasina for commenting on developments in Bangladesh while in exile in India. He suggested Bangladesh can seek her extradition and said India should move beyond the "narrative" that every political party other than Hasina's Awami League is "Islamist".
"If India wants to keep her until the time Bangladesh wants her back, the condition would be that she has to keep quiet," Yunus said. "Sitting in India, she is speaking and giving instructions. No one likes it. It's not good for us or for India."
The Bangladeshi side has told India "quite firmly" that Hasina should keep quiet as "she has been given shelter there and she is campaigning from there".
There has been no response so far from the Indian side to Yunus's remarks. However, the people cited above said such comments weren't conducive to better relations.
India's leadership has said Hasina was granted approval to come to the country at short notice after she stepped down on August 5. The external affairs ministry has declined to comment on any possible Bangladeshi request for her extradition, describing it as a hypothetical matter.
Yunus, sworn in as leader of Bangladesh's interim government three days after Hasina fled to India, spoke to Modi on phone on August 16. At the time, Modi urged Yunus to ensure the protection of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh following attacks after the ouster of the previous government.
Yunus had said Bangladesh will give priority to the security of all minorities. In recent weeks, Yunus has repeatedly described reports in the Indian media about attacks on Bangladesh's Hindus as "exaggerated".
During their phone conversation, the two leaders also discussed ways to take forward bilateral relations in line with national priorities.
India yet to take call on Bangladesh’s request for Yunus-Modi meeting: Hindustan Times
The Bangladeshi side made a formal request earlier this week for a meeting between Yunus and Modi, who will both be in New York for the UN General Assembly later this month
Due to Delhi's reluctance, inter-country passenger train services on all three existing routes between Bangladesh and India have remained suspended for over a month and a half.
Although Dhaka has sent several proposals to resume the rail service, Delhi has not yet responded, according to railway officials in Bangladesh. However, after repeated efforts, India allowed freight trains to operate from 20 August.
Earlier, on 18 July, train movement was halted across the country, including cross-border services, due to a "complete shutdown" enforced by students protesting the quota system in government services.
Short-distance trains resumed on 1 August but were halted again on 3 August as protests intensified.
Freight trains resumed operation on 12 August, days after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. Mail, express, local, and commuter trains began operating on 13 August, with intercity trains resuming service on 15 August.
Despite multiple attempts by the Bangladesh Railway to resume passenger services, the Indian Railway Board has not granted permission to this end.
In this regard, Director General of Bangladesh Railway Sardar Shahadat Ali told The Business Standard on Thursday, "Freight train operations have resumed between the two countries since 20 August, but there has been no progress on passenger trains despite our repeated efforts."
He continued, "We have sent letters but have received no response from the Indian side. Therefore, we have informed the foreign ministry, which will now hold talks with India. We hope to receive updates soon."
Failing to obtain permission from the Indian Railway authorities, the Bangladesh Railway decided to address the issue through government high-ups and sent a letter to the foreign ministry on 19 August.
TBS has obtained a copy of the letter, which states that Indian Railways had been requested to send light engines from 12 August to take empty wagons from Bangladesh.
However, no light engines have been sent, nor has any action been taken to get back the empty wagons.
The letter further notes that 255 empty wagons are currently waiting at various stations, occupying yard lines and disrupting normal operations.
Additionally, while the Bangladesh Railways granted permission for loaded rakes to be sent from India to Bangladesh on 12 August via various interchange routes, no loaded trains have been dispatched.
On the same day, 19 August, the Bangladesh Railway's operations department sent a separate letter to the Indian Railways' operations department regarding the running of freight trains.
This time, Bangladesh Railway received no objections from its Indian counterpart.
As a result, from 20 August, the empty wagons stuck in Bangladesh were able to enter India, and goods wagons stuck in India were allowed to enter Bangladesh.
In the letter to the foreign ministry, the Bangladesh Railway also addressed the issue of passenger trains.
It noted that the Mithali Express (Indian rake) running between Bangladesh and India arrived at Dhaka Cantonment station from New Jalpaiguri on the night of 17 July.
The train was scheduled to depart for New Jalpaiguri on the night of 18 July but could not operate due to the unrest. The empty rake of the Mithali Express is currently stationed at Dhaka Railway Station.
The inter-country Mithali Express between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri, Maitree Express between Dhaka and Kolkata, and Bandhan Express between Khulna and Kolkata remain closed."
Finally, the letter requested the foreign ministry to take necessary measures to resume inter-country passenger train services between Bangladesh and India. However, India has yet to make a decision regarding passenger train operations.
When contacted, an official from the South Asia Wing of the foreign ministry, who wished to remain anonymous, said, "India has already permitted the operation of freight trains. Further talks with India are ongoing. India will inform us once they reach a final decision from their high authority. Nothing more can be said at this time."
On Saturday, Nahid Hasan Khan, director of public relations at Bangladesh Railway, said, "The matter will now be decided at the government level, as it is handled by the foreign ministry. They are working on it, and we have not been informed of any developments so far."
Bangladesh-India passenger trains remain halted despite multiple attempts
Short-distance trains resumed on 1 August but were halted again on 3 August as protests intensified
Bangladesh needs good relations with India, but it should be on the basis of equality and fairness, the interim government's Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said.
During a views-exchange meeting with students, the chief adviser also said he will try to revive the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), Mahfuz Alam, chief adviser's special assistant, told the media at a briefing later.
About 150 students, including those who led the recent quota reform protests, participated in the meeting at the Chief Adviser's Office on Sunday (8 September).
Good relations with India needed, but on basis of fairness, equality: Yunus
Chief Adviser's Special Assistant Mahfuz says govt taking firm stance against mob justice
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged the country’s armed forces to analyse the ongoing conflicts between Israel-Hamas, Russia-Ukraine, and the current state of affairs in Bangladesh to prepare India for the “unexpected”.
He made the remarks on Thursday during a joint commanders’ conference in India’s Lucknow, according to the Indian newspaper The Telegraph.
Singh underscored the need for a thorough analysis in light of the recent circumstances in the India-China border and neighbouring countries “which are posing a challenge to peace and stability in the region”.
He also emphasised on a coordinated and proportionate response to provocation for any challenges India may face during future wars.
“Despite global volatility, India is enjoying a rare peace dividend and it is developing peacefully. However, due to the increasing number of challenges, we need to remain alert,” he was quoted as telling the commanders.
“We need to focus on our present, keep an eye on the activities happening around us at present, and focus on being future-oriented.
“For this, we should have a strong and robust national security component. We should have a fail-proof deterrence,” Singh was quoted saying.
He also highlighted the significance of using artificial intelligence to develop electronic and space warfare.
“These components do not participate in any conflict or war directly. Their indirect participation is deciding the course of warfare to a great extent,” he added.
While referring to India as a ‘peace-loving’ nation, he stressed that the Indian armed forces need to be ready for war to “preserve peace”.
His comments have stirred curious reactions in Bangladesh as they come in the context of the collapse of the government of Sheikh Hasina who has fled to India.
Former prime minister Hasina has long been regarded as one of India’s closest allies.
There has been a growing surge of anti-India sentiments and rhetoric in Bangladesh, especially since the massive July-August protests that overthrew the Hasina government.
Indian defence minister tells military to watch out for conflicts in Bangladesh, China
He emphasises the need for a proportionate response to provocation for any challenges India may face'Be prepared for unexpected': Rajnath Singh tells Armed Forces to 'keep eye on happenings in neighbouring countries' | India News - Times of India
India News: At the Joint Commanders’ Conference, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India's need to be prepared for war to maintain peace. He emphasized j
Commenting on Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's speech before his country's military urging them to analyse the situation in Bangladesh, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain said he was more surprised than concerned.
"I am more surprised than concerned by his comments. I don't see any reason for such statements. We need to understand whether he said this for his own country's purposes," Hossain said during a press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today (8 September).
"I do not believe there is any possibility of conflict between our two countries under any circumstances," he added.
Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh recently urged the top commanders of the Indian Armed Forces to monitor the situation in Bangladesh and prepare for future conflicts.
Rajnath "emphasised on the need of a broader and deeper analysis by the top military leadership in view of the situation along the northern border and the happenings in neighbouring countries which are posing a challenge to peace and stability in the region," according to a Defence Ministry statement.
He made these remarks during a speech last Thursday (5 September), where he addressed the Armed Forces' Joint Commanders Conference in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
Hossain further elaborated on the issue, stating, "The way he spoke seems to be beating around the bush. I also don't see why India would need to prepare for war because of the conflict in Israel.
"It's also unclear what connection India has with the situation involving Hamas. And how Ukraine and Hamas could be compared to Bangladesh is beyond my understanding. We don't want to have any knee-jerk reaction to this. But we will certainly look into why he made such statements."
When asked if Singh's remarks pose a threat to Bangladesh, the foreign affairs adviser said, "I still believe he made this statement for some internal need. So, I don't want to speculate."
In response to a question about whether India would offer political asylum to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, Hossain said, "Any country can grant political asylum to anyone. But whether it should be done in this case is something we will consider and look into."
Surprised, not concerned: Foreign affairs adviser on Indian defence minister's remarks
Indian Defence Rajnath "emphasised the need of a broader and deeper analysis by the top military leadership in view of the situation along the northern border and the happenings in neighbouring countries which are posing a challenge to peace and stability in the region during a meeting with his...
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The government will talk eye to eye with other countries, including India, for the sake of the country without kneeling down, Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan said yesterday (10 September).
"The previous government was a submissive regime lacking people's mandate. When dealing with other countries, they spoke with their heads bowed," Asif said during a discussion meeting organised by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement at the Town Hall Ground in Cumilla.
"From now on, we want to engage with other countries with our heads held high, speaking for national interests rather than party interests," he added.
Asif further stated that India must now engage with the people of Bangladesh, rather than with just one party -- the Awami League.
www.tbsnews.net
The government aims to expedite export-import activities with neighbouring India through the Bhomra Land Port in Satkhira.
As part of this initiative, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has announced that all products, except powdered milk, will now be allowed for import through this port.
The NBR is also considering upgrading the port from its current status as a land port station to a full customs house.
On 29 August, the customs wing of the NBR issued a statutory regulatory order (SRO) authorising the import of nearly all products through Bhomra.
A senior customs official told The Business Standard, "Currently, Bhomra operates as a land customs station. We are working towards establishing a separate customs house there, given the volume of imports through this port."
He added, "The distance from Bhomra to Kolkata is approximately 22 kilometres shorter than from Benapole in the Jashore district, presenting a significant opportunity for increased bilateral trade with India."
The distance from Benapole to Kolkata by road is 84 kilometres, while from Bhomra Land Port it is 62 kilometres.
Established in 1996, Bhomra is the third-largest land port in the country. Over 500 businesses are currently involved in import-export activities through this facility.
According to port authority data, revenue collected through Bhomra in the fiscal 2022-23 totalled approximately Tk632 crore.
Businesses are increasingly recognising the potential of the Bhomra Land Port.
Abdul Wahed, chairman of the standing committee on land ports, border trade, transit, and transshipment at the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), told TBS, "There is a strong likelihood of increased imports through Bhomra."
He added, "Both Bhomra and Sonamasjid land ports are crucial for alleviating the burden on the Benapole port."
However, Wahed also highlighted the current deficiencies in port and customs facilities.
"The port has not yet reached its full capacity. The roads need to be widened and improved. Establishing a fully operational port with complete customs facilities will significantly enhance its utilisation," said Wahed, who is also a former director of the country's apex trade body.
www.tbsnews.net
"The previous government was a submissive regime lacking people's mandate. When dealing with other countries, they spoke with their heads bowed," Asif said during a discussion meeting organised by the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement at the Town Hall Ground in Cumilla.
"From now on, we want to engage with other countries with our heads held high, speaking for national interests rather than party interests," he added.
Asif further stated that India must now engage with the people of Bangladesh, rather than with just one party -- the Awami League.
'We will talk with India eye to eye': Asif Mahmud
“From now on, we want to engage with other countries with our heads held high, speaking for national interests rather than party interests," he said.
The government aims to expedite export-import activities with neighbouring India through the Bhomra Land Port in Satkhira.
As part of this initiative, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) has announced that all products, except powdered milk, will now be allowed for import through this port.
The NBR is also considering upgrading the port from its current status as a land port station to a full customs house.
On 29 August, the customs wing of the NBR issued a statutory regulatory order (SRO) authorising the import of nearly all products through Bhomra.
A senior customs official told The Business Standard, "Currently, Bhomra operates as a land customs station. We are working towards establishing a separate customs house there, given the volume of imports through this port."
He added, "The distance from Bhomra to Kolkata is approximately 22 kilometres shorter than from Benapole in the Jashore district, presenting a significant opportunity for increased bilateral trade with India."
The distance from Benapole to Kolkata by road is 84 kilometres, while from Bhomra Land Port it is 62 kilometres.
Established in 1996, Bhomra is the third-largest land port in the country. Over 500 businesses are currently involved in import-export activities through this facility.
According to port authority data, revenue collected through Bhomra in the fiscal 2022-23 totalled approximately Tk632 crore.
Businesses are increasingly recognising the potential of the Bhomra Land Port.
Abdul Wahed, chairman of the standing committee on land ports, border trade, transit, and transshipment at the Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), told TBS, "There is a strong likelihood of increased imports through Bhomra."
He added, "Both Bhomra and Sonamasjid land ports are crucial for alleviating the burden on the Benapole port."
However, Wahed also highlighted the current deficiencies in port and customs facilities.
"The port has not yet reached its full capacity. The roads need to be widened and improved. Establishing a fully operational port with complete customs facilities will significantly enhance its utilisation," said Wahed, who is also a former director of the country's apex trade body.
Govt aims to expedite trade thru Bhomra
NBR opens imports of almost all products through the port and plans to establish a new customs house
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Hilsa from Bangladesh was sent to India every year on the occasion of Durga Puja. However, after the fall of the Awami League government, certainly, this continuity will not be maintained. It has already been hinted that “Hilsa will not be given from Bangladesh this time”. In such a situation, it has been reported that “India has sent a letter” to Bangladesh requesting to send hilsa.
Indian media Hindustan Times reported that Hilsa goes to India from Bangladesh every year from the first week of September. However, the question has been raised whether Hilsa will go this time – because the political situation in Bangladesh has changed. Every year, Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League-led government arranged to send hilsa to India. But this time the situation is different as Sheikh Hasina ousted and fled to India.Even in this uncertainty, some light of hope has been seen. Fish Exporters and Importers Association has appealed to the government for the export of hilsa.
Hindustan Times says that hilsa has been imported from Bangladesh for the past 5 years. Fish Exporters and Importers Association has appealed to the Foreign Affairs Adviser of the Bangladesh Government Touhid Hossain to send Hilsa to India following the same custom.
Last year also 1,300 metric tons of hilsa went from Bangladesh. However, there is still no assurance about how much hilsa will go this time, or if it will go at all.
India sends letter to Bangladesh asking for hilsa
Hilsa from Bangladesh was sent to India every year on the occasion of Durga Puja. However, after the fall of the Awami League government, certainly, this continuity will not be maintained. It has already been hinted that “Hilsa will not be given from Bangladesh this time”. In such a situation...
The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has seized approximately 650 kilograms of hilsa fish worth over Tk10 lakh near the Indian border in the Cumilla.
"The seized hilsa fish was valued at Tk1,600 per kilogram, amounting over Tk10.25 lakh," Lieutenant Colonel AM Jaber Bin Jabbar, Commander of the BGB-60 battalion told The Business Standard.
"The fish was subsequently auctioned, and the proceeds were deposited into the government treasury."
According to BGB sources, around 1pm today (11 September), during a routine patrol, BGB personnel spotted smugglers transporting the Hilsa in the North Anandapur area of Burichong Upazila, within 100 yards of the 2067 main pillar of the border.
Upon noticing the BGB patrol, the smugglers fled towards the Indian border and managed to escape.
BGB seizes 650kg hilsa worth over Tk10 lakh in Cumilla, smugglers flee to India
According to BGB sources, around 1pm today (11 September), during a routine patrol, BGB personnel spotted smugglers transporting the Hilsa in the North Anandapur area of Burichong Upazila
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Bangladesh is going to get back the ownership of about 200 acres of land previously lost to India due to the erosion of the Padma River on the Daulatpur border of Kushtia.
This decision was taken in a courtesy meeting of the senior officials of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India’s Border Security Forces (BSF) on Sunday.
Kushita BGB-47 Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Md Mahbub Murshed confirmed the matter on Monday (September 16).
BGB and local sources said that the land in question, located in the Challishpara area of Ramkrishnapur union in Daulatpur upazila, has been under dispute due to shifts in the Padma River's course and natural disasters, which disorganised international boundary pillars over a stretch of three kilometers.
The BGB commander M Mahbub Murshed Rahman, said it has been agreed to conduct a resurvey of the disputed land and return it to the rightful owners.
www.risingbd.com
This decision was taken in a courtesy meeting of the senior officials of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India’s Border Security Forces (BSF) on Sunday.
Kushita BGB-47 Battalion Commander Lt. Col. Md Mahbub Murshed confirmed the matter on Monday (September 16).
BGB and local sources said that the land in question, located in the Challishpara area of Ramkrishnapur union in Daulatpur upazila, has been under dispute due to shifts in the Padma River's course and natural disasters, which disorganised international boundary pillars over a stretch of three kilometers.
The BGB commander M Mahbub Murshed Rahman, said it has been agreed to conduct a resurvey of the disputed land and return it to the rightful owners.
India to return 200 acres of land to Bangladesh
Bangladesh is going to get back the ownership of about 200 acres of land previously lost to India due to the erosion of the Padma River on the Daulatpur border of Kushtia.
www.risingbd.com
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India's exports to Bangladesh declined by 28%, from $943 million in August last year to $681 million last month, says The Indian Express.
Meanwhile, rating agency Crisil said that the recent developments in Bangladesh haven't had a significant impact on India's trade but going forward a prolonged disruption can affect the revenue profiles and working capital cycles of some export-oriented units for which Bangladesh is either a demand centre or a production hub.
Trade data showed that cotton exports, which is India's primary export commodity to Bangladesh, slipped nearly 10% to 1 billion in August this year compared to 1.11 billion August 2023.
This comes amid slowing export textile and apparel orders coming to Bangladesh following the protests.
The decline in orders from Bangladesh has had a spillover effect on the Indian textile industry, which supplies raw materials and other input items to Bangladesh. While fresh inquiries for garments are coming to India, Indian cotton exports to Bangladesh have begun to decline.
The effect will vary based on industry or sector-specific nuances and exposure, it said. "We do not foresee any near-term impact on the credit quality of India Inc either," the Crisil study said. That, and the movement in the Bangladeshi currency taka, will bear watching, it said.
Sectors such as cotton yarn, power, footwear, soft luggage, fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) may see a small but manageable negative impact, while ship breaking, jute, readymade garments (RMG) should benefit, Crisil said.
For most others, the impact will be insignificant. India's trade with Bangladesh is relatively low, accounting for 2.5% of its total exports and 0.3% of total imports last fiscal, the rating firm said. Merchandise exports mainly comprise cotton and cotton yarn, petroleum products, electric energy, etc., while imports largely consist of vegetable fat oils, marine products and apparel, the study said. For cotton yarn players, Bangladesh accounts for 8-10% of sales, so the revenue profile of major exporters could be affected. "Their ability to compensate for sales in other geographies will be an important monitorable," it said.
Their operating profit margins, however, may not be significantly impacted because cotton-yarn spreads are already modest at present, it said. Companies into footwear, FMCG and soft luggage could also see some impact because of manufacturing facilities located in Bangladesh. "These facilities faced operational challenges during the initial phase of the crisis," the study said.
However most have since commenced operations, though a full ramp-up and the ability to maintain their supply chain will be critical, it said. Engineering, procurement and construction companies engaged in power and other projects in Bangladesh could see execution delays this fiscal as a sizable portion of their workforce has been recalled to India for almost a month now, the study said.
With only a gradual ramp-up in workforce expected, revenue booking could be lower this fiscal compared with earlier expectations, Crisil said. Besides, companies supplying electricity could see delayed payment of dues. Pertinently, debtor risk for most sectors may increase with major transactions being carried out through letters of credit (LCs), which could be invoked in the event of non-payment, leading to dependence on Bangladesh banks for settlement, it said.
Besides, forex issues are also rising due to the depreciation of taka versus the rupee and other currencies, the study said. On the other hand, companies in the ship breaking, jute and RMG sectors are seeing an increase in sales inquiries from key export destinations such as the US and Europe.
www.tbsnews.net
Meanwhile, rating agency Crisil said that the recent developments in Bangladesh haven't had a significant impact on India's trade but going forward a prolonged disruption can affect the revenue profiles and working capital cycles of some export-oriented units for which Bangladesh is either a demand centre or a production hub.
Trade data showed that cotton exports, which is India's primary export commodity to Bangladesh, slipped nearly 10% to 1 billion in August this year compared to 1.11 billion August 2023.
This comes amid slowing export textile and apparel orders coming to Bangladesh following the protests.
The decline in orders from Bangladesh has had a spillover effect on the Indian textile industry, which supplies raw materials and other input items to Bangladesh. While fresh inquiries for garments are coming to India, Indian cotton exports to Bangladesh have begun to decline.
The effect will vary based on industry or sector-specific nuances and exposure, it said. "We do not foresee any near-term impact on the credit quality of India Inc either," the Crisil study said. That, and the movement in the Bangladeshi currency taka, will bear watching, it said.
Sectors such as cotton yarn, power, footwear, soft luggage, fast moving consumer goods (FMCG) may see a small but manageable negative impact, while ship breaking, jute, readymade garments (RMG) should benefit, Crisil said.
For most others, the impact will be insignificant. India's trade with Bangladesh is relatively low, accounting for 2.5% of its total exports and 0.3% of total imports last fiscal, the rating firm said. Merchandise exports mainly comprise cotton and cotton yarn, petroleum products, electric energy, etc., while imports largely consist of vegetable fat oils, marine products and apparel, the study said. For cotton yarn players, Bangladesh accounts for 8-10% of sales, so the revenue profile of major exporters could be affected. "Their ability to compensate for sales in other geographies will be an important monitorable," it said.
Their operating profit margins, however, may not be significantly impacted because cotton-yarn spreads are already modest at present, it said. Companies into footwear, FMCG and soft luggage could also see some impact because of manufacturing facilities located in Bangladesh. "These facilities faced operational challenges during the initial phase of the crisis," the study said.
However most have since commenced operations, though a full ramp-up and the ability to maintain their supply chain will be critical, it said. Engineering, procurement and construction companies engaged in power and other projects in Bangladesh could see execution delays this fiscal as a sizable portion of their workforce has been recalled to India for almost a month now, the study said.
With only a gradual ramp-up in workforce expected, revenue booking could be lower this fiscal compared with earlier expectations, Crisil said. Besides, companies supplying electricity could see delayed payment of dues. Pertinently, debtor risk for most sectors may increase with major transactions being carried out through letters of credit (LCs), which could be invoked in the event of non-payment, leading to dependence on Bangladesh banks for settlement, it said.
Besides, forex issues are also rising due to the depreciation of taka versus the rupee and other currencies, the study said. On the other hand, companies in the ship breaking, jute and RMG sectors are seeing an increase in sales inquiries from key export destinations such as the US and Europe.
India’s exports to Bangladesh slip 28% in Aug; Crisil flags risk to export-oriented units
Trade data showed that cotton exports, which is India’s primary export commodity to Bangladesh, slipped nearly 10% to 1 billion in August this year compared to 1.11 billion August 2023.
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Highlights:
- Novoair to suspend Dhaka-Kolkata flight from 16 Sept
- Biman cuts weekly 60% of India flights
- US-Bangla suspends Ctg-Kolkata flights
Several Bangladeshi airlines have significantly reduced or temporarily suspended their flight operations to India due to a decline in passenger numbers.
Although Indian visa services have resumed on a limited scale after being suspended following the fall of the former government, the number of visas issued remains significantly low, resulting in a passenger shortage, according to airlines.
Currently, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, US-Bangla Airlines and Novoair operate flights between Bangladesh and India on the Dhaka-Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, and Mumbai routes, along with India's Vistara Airlines, Air India, and IndiGo.
Mes-Bah-Ul Islam, head of Marketing and Sales at Novoair, a private airline operating between Dhaka and Kolkata, told TBS, "Many people cannot go to India due to visa issues. Due to the low number of passengers, we are suspending our Kolkata flight from the 16th."
He added, "We used to operate one flight daily. Since 1 August the number had dropped to three flights a week. Once the situation normalises, we will resume flights to Kolkata."
Boshra Islam, general manager (PR) of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, told TBS, "Due to the decline in passengers over the past few weeks, we have reduced the number of our flights. We used to operate two flights daily to Kolkata, but now we are operating one. The number of flights to Delhi has been reduced from three to one per week, and to Chennai from three to one."
Sources at Bangladesh Biman indicate that even on the reduced flights to Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi from Dhaka, only 50% of the capacity is being filled. However, there are slightly more passengers on return flights from these cities to Dhaka.
US-Bangla Airlines General Manager (PR) Md Kamrul Islam told TBS, "We have reduced the number of our flights. Tourist visas are completely closed now. Other visas are also closed, which is why the number of flights from Dhaka to Kolkata has been reduced from 14 to 6 per week."
He also said that the daily flight from Chattogram to Kolkata has also been suspended. The number of flights from Dhaka to Chennai has been reduced from 11 to 5 per week.
"The number of passengers will continue to decline. There has been a passenger crisis for almost a month. We hope that the policymakers of the two countries will quickly resolve the visa issue that India is currently facing. We are facing significant losses due to the passenger crisis," he added.
After the fall of the Hasina-led government, India's visa services were suspended. Later, they were resumed on a limited scale, with pending passports returned to passengers. A large portion of those who received their passports were denied visas.
The Indian government has recently started issuing visas on a limited scale for medical and study purposes only. As a result, those planning to visit India for travel or other purposes are being deprived, leading to a continued passenger shortage on flights.
Airlines cut India flights as tourists drop amid visa suspension
Sources at Bangladesh Biman indicate that even on the reduced flights to Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi from Dhaka, only 50% of the capacity is being filled
Passenger numbers plummet on Bangladesh-India routes following Aug 5
Flights between Bangladesh and India have seen a sharp drop in passenger numbers recently, with airlines blaming India's restricted visa issuance as the main cause
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What the.....?!
3,000 tonnes of hilsa export to India okayed
The government has approved conditional export of 3,000 tonnes of hilsa to India citing the upcoming Durga Puja.
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Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the BJP will free Jharkhand of "Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators" and hang them "upside down", says The Hindu.
"Due to fear of losing their vote bank, the JMM, RJD and Congress do not stop infiltration. If you change the government of Jharkhand, I promise that the BJP will send out all the Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators from Jharkhand, one by one," he said.
These comments come at a time when Bangladeshi ministers are expected to meet with their Indian counterparts on the sidelines of the UNGA.
Shah said changing the Chief Minister or bringing the BJP government in place of the JMM-Congress-RJD combine is not the motive of the election. Voters have to "remove the corrupt government" and bring in a government that will "stop corruption".
"The change has to be brought by removing the government that is destroying the tribal girls and their culture through intruders. My tribal brothers and sisters go to different parts of the country for employment. Instead of this, a government which brings employment to Santhal Pargana has to be brought in. We do not just want to change the Chief Minister, we want to change Jharkhand," Shah said.
Lashing out at the State government, Shah said that Jharkhand was created by BJP Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for tribals, but Hemant Soren's government has propagated "infiltrator welfare" instead of tribal welfare.
"Today, slogans like 'Hindus and tribals leave Jharkhand' are raised in Pakur district. Only Narendra Modi and the BJP can save this land of the tribals. In our State, the number of infiltrators is increasing in place of tribals, we have to stop this," he said.
Shah said earlier, the population of tribals in the Santhal Pargana was 44%, "but now it has come down to 28%". "You people should form a BJP government in Jharkhand for five years and I promise that our government will straighten out the Bangladeshis who have infiltrated Santhal Pargana by hanging them upside down."
Recalling the deaths of youths during physical tests for constables in the State, Shah said that the Soren government had promised to give 5 lakh jobs every year, but instead "made the youth run in search of jobs till they died". Referring to the mining scam worth ₹1,000 crore, he said "mountains of notes" were found from locations linked to Indian Congress MP Dhiraj Sahu and former Congress Minister Alamgirl Alam.
The Minister said that although the JMM and Congress always talk about tribal welfare, when the Congress was in power at the Centre, it had made a provision of ₹20,000 crore for tribal welfare in 2013-14, but when the Narendra Modi government was formed, the budget was increased to ₹1.20 lakh crore. He promised that if the BJP is voted to power, people above 75 would get ₹10 lakh medical insurance.
The Minister also visited Bhognadih, the birthplace of Santhal leaders Sido and Kanu who led the Santhal rebellion in 1855, and paid floral tributes to them.
In a related development, the Jharkhand High Court on Friday (September 20, 2024) reserved its order in a public interest litigation seeking a probe into Bangladeshi infiltration and changing the demographics of the Santhal Pargana.
www.tbsnews.net
"Due to fear of losing their vote bank, the JMM, RJD and Congress do not stop infiltration. If you change the government of Jharkhand, I promise that the BJP will send out all the Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators from Jharkhand, one by one," he said.
These comments come at a time when Bangladeshi ministers are expected to meet with their Indian counterparts on the sidelines of the UNGA.
Shah said changing the Chief Minister or bringing the BJP government in place of the JMM-Congress-RJD combine is not the motive of the election. Voters have to "remove the corrupt government" and bring in a government that will "stop corruption".
"The change has to be brought by removing the government that is destroying the tribal girls and their culture through intruders. My tribal brothers and sisters go to different parts of the country for employment. Instead of this, a government which brings employment to Santhal Pargana has to be brought in. We do not just want to change the Chief Minister, we want to change Jharkhand," Shah said.
Lashing out at the State government, Shah said that Jharkhand was created by BJP Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for tribals, but Hemant Soren's government has propagated "infiltrator welfare" instead of tribal welfare.
"Today, slogans like 'Hindus and tribals leave Jharkhand' are raised in Pakur district. Only Narendra Modi and the BJP can save this land of the tribals. In our State, the number of infiltrators is increasing in place of tribals, we have to stop this," he said.
Shah said earlier, the population of tribals in the Santhal Pargana was 44%, "but now it has come down to 28%". "You people should form a BJP government in Jharkhand for five years and I promise that our government will straighten out the Bangladeshis who have infiltrated Santhal Pargana by hanging them upside down."
Recalling the deaths of youths during physical tests for constables in the State, Shah said that the Soren government had promised to give 5 lakh jobs every year, but instead "made the youth run in search of jobs till they died". Referring to the mining scam worth ₹1,000 crore, he said "mountains of notes" were found from locations linked to Indian Congress MP Dhiraj Sahu and former Congress Minister Alamgirl Alam.
The Minister said that although the JMM and Congress always talk about tribal welfare, when the Congress was in power at the Centre, it had made a provision of ₹20,000 crore for tribal welfare in 2013-14, but when the Narendra Modi government was formed, the budget was increased to ₹1.20 lakh crore. He promised that if the BJP is voted to power, people above 75 would get ₹10 lakh medical insurance.
The Minister also visited Bhognadih, the birthplace of Santhal leaders Sido and Kanu who led the Santhal rebellion in 1855, and paid floral tributes to them.
In a related development, the Jharkhand High Court on Friday (September 20, 2024) reserved its order in a public interest litigation seeking a probe into Bangladeshi infiltration and changing the demographics of the Santhal Pargana.
BJP will throw Bangladeshis out of India: Amit Shah
These comments come at a time when Bangladeshi ministers are expected to meet with their Indian counterparts on the sidelines of the UNGA
All that hyping up of Hilsa ban only to get indian public more anti Bangladesh and then back tracking from it.What the.....?!
3,000 tonnes of hilsa export to India okayed
The government has approved conditional export of 3,000 tonnes of hilsa to India citing the upcoming Durga Puja.www.thedailystar.net
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A member of India's Border Security Force (BSF) was detained by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) today (24 September) after he allegedly crossed into the Bangladesh territory illegally at the Pirganj border in Thakurgaon.
Lt Col Ahsanul Islam, commander of BGB's 42nd Battalion, confirmed the development, saying that BSF personnel Up Kumar Das was apprehended near the Chandherhat camp around 11am.
According to the BGB, the BSF personnel crossed the zero line of the international boundary near pillar number 334/sub-pillar 6, entering Bangladesh without authorisation.
Although the BSF member was in uniform at the time of his detention, he was unarmed, the BGB official noted.
Authorities are currently preparing to return the detained BSF member to the Indian authorities through a flag meeting, BGB added.
www.tbsnews.net
Senior officials from Indian companies involved in critical power transmission projects in Bangladesh, which are essential for evacuating electricity from the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, have yet to return to their jobs, raising concerns about the progress of these projects.
"A few staff from KEC International Limited and Transrail Lighting Limited have returned, but none from Larsen & Toubro Limited or other companies have come back," a top official from Power Grid Bangladesh said.
The official clarified that the returning staff are mostly locally recruited temporary workers and mid-level officials from KEC, with no senior officials back on site yet.
However, another senior Power Grid Bangladesh official indicated that Indian staff from Larsen & Toubro are expected to rejoin the projects from 24 September.
"We are waiting to see them resume their work," the official said.
The return of Indian personnel has been delayed since all staff from Indian companies left Bangladesh following the fall of the Awami League government on 5 August, in the wake of a mass uprising. As a result, the transmission projects involving Indian contractors have come to a standstill.
Currently, Indian companies are engaged in 17 transmission projects across Bangladesh, with Larsen & Toubro, Transrail, and KEC being the primary contractors. Some of these projects are crucial for connecting the Rooppur plant, scheduled to begin operation in December this year, to the national grid.
"The sudden departure of Indian contractor staff has created uncertainty around these critical projects," said the Power Grid Bangladesh official.
Larsen & Toubro, one of the key contractors, has been awarded major contracts to build transmission infrastructure necessary for evacuating electricity from Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant in Rooppur, Pabna.
The company is responsible for installing 400kV and 230kV transmission lines, which are critical components of the grid synchronisation and testing process for the Rooppur plant's first unit, now scheduled for completion in early 2025.
The transmission project, estimated to cost Tk10,981 crore, is being financed primarily by Exim Bank (Tk8,219 crore), with contributions from the Bangladesh government (Tk1,527 crore) and Power Grid Bangladesh (Tk1,235 crore).
According to the Power Grid Bangladesh, the transmission project includes five major packages – the 464km long 400kV transmission lines, including a 13km river crossing; 205km long 230kV transmission lines, including 7km river crossing; 400kV five Bay extensions; and 230kV four bay extensions.
The fifth package of the project includes qualitative upgradation of Bangladesh power system for frequency control and frequency drop protection, protection system, emergency control system and other associated tasks.
www.tbsnews.net
Bangladesh lodged strong protest against the Indian Home Minister’s remarks
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh lodged a strong protest against the highly deplorable remarks reportedly made by the Union Home Minister of India Mr. Amit Shah about Bangladeshi nationals during his recent visit to Jharkhand, India.
Through the protest note handed over today to the Deputy High Commissioner of India in Dhaka, the Ministry conveyed its serious reservation, deep sense of hurt and extreme displeasure and called upon the Government of India to advise the political leaders to refrain from making such objectionable and unacceptable remarks.
The Ministry also emphasized that such remarks, coming from responsible positions against the nationals of a neighbouring country, undermine the spirit of mutual respect and understanding between two friendly countries.
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Lt Col Ahsanul Islam, commander of BGB's 42nd Battalion, confirmed the development, saying that BSF personnel Up Kumar Das was apprehended near the Chandherhat camp around 11am.
According to the BGB, the BSF personnel crossed the zero line of the international boundary near pillar number 334/sub-pillar 6, entering Bangladesh without authorisation.
Although the BSF member was in uniform at the time of his detention, he was unarmed, the BGB official noted.
Authorities are currently preparing to return the detained BSF member to the Indian authorities through a flag meeting, BGB added.
BSF man detained in Thakurgaon for illegally crossing border: BGB
Authorities are currently preparing to return the detained BSF member to the Indian authorities
Senior officials from Indian companies involved in critical power transmission projects in Bangladesh, which are essential for evacuating electricity from the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, have yet to return to their jobs, raising concerns about the progress of these projects.
"A few staff from KEC International Limited and Transrail Lighting Limited have returned, but none from Larsen & Toubro Limited or other companies have come back," a top official from Power Grid Bangladesh said.
The official clarified that the returning staff are mostly locally recruited temporary workers and mid-level officials from KEC, with no senior officials back on site yet.
However, another senior Power Grid Bangladesh official indicated that Indian staff from Larsen & Toubro are expected to rejoin the projects from 24 September.
"We are waiting to see them resume their work," the official said.
The return of Indian personnel has been delayed since all staff from Indian companies left Bangladesh following the fall of the Awami League government on 5 August, in the wake of a mass uprising. As a result, the transmission projects involving Indian contractors have come to a standstill.
Currently, Indian companies are engaged in 17 transmission projects across Bangladesh, with Larsen & Toubro, Transrail, and KEC being the primary contractors. Some of these projects are crucial for connecting the Rooppur plant, scheduled to begin operation in December this year, to the national grid.
"The sudden departure of Indian contractor staff has created uncertainty around these critical projects," said the Power Grid Bangladesh official.
Larsen & Toubro, one of the key contractors, has been awarded major contracts to build transmission infrastructure necessary for evacuating electricity from Bangladesh's first nuclear power plant in Rooppur, Pabna.
The company is responsible for installing 400kV and 230kV transmission lines, which are critical components of the grid synchronisation and testing process for the Rooppur plant's first unit, now scheduled for completion in early 2025.
The transmission project, estimated to cost Tk10,981 crore, is being financed primarily by Exim Bank (Tk8,219 crore), with contributions from the Bangladesh government (Tk1,527 crore) and Power Grid Bangladesh (Tk1,235 crore).
According to the Power Grid Bangladesh, the transmission project includes five major packages – the 464km long 400kV transmission lines, including a 13km river crossing; 205km long 230kV transmission lines, including 7km river crossing; 400kV five Bay extensions; and 230kV four bay extensions.
The fifth package of the project includes qualitative upgradation of Bangladesh power system for frequency control and frequency drop protection, protection system, emergency control system and other associated tasks.
Indian staff yet to resume work on key projects linked to Rooppur Plant
Delay in staff return puts transmission projects in uncertainty ahead of Rooppur NPP grid connection
Indian Union Home Minister Amit Shah said that the BJP will free Jharkhand of "Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators" and hang them "upside down", says The Hindu.
"Due to fear of losing their vote bank, the JMM, RJD and Congress do not stop infiltration. If you change the government of Jharkhand, I promise that the BJP will send out all the Rohingya and Bangladeshi infiltrators from Jharkhand, one by one," he said.
These comments come at a time when Bangladeshi ministers are expected to meet with their Indian counterparts on the sidelines of the UNGA.
Shah said changing the Chief Minister or bringing the BJP government in place of the JMM-Congress-RJD combine is not the motive of the election. Voters have to "remove the corrupt government" and bring in a government that will "stop corruption".
"The change has to be brought by removing the government that is destroying the tribal girls and their culture through intruders. My tribal brothers and sisters go to different parts of the country for employment. Instead of this, a government which brings employment to Santhal Pargana has to be brought in. We do not just want to change the Chief Minister, we want to change Jharkhand," Shah said.
Lashing out at the State government, Shah said that Jharkhand was created by BJP Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for tribals, but Hemant Soren's government has propagated "infiltrator welfare" instead of tribal welfare.
"Today, slogans like 'Hindus and tribals leave Jharkhand' are raised in Pakur district. Only Narendra Modi and the BJP can save this land of the tribals. In our State, the number of infiltrators is increasing in place of tribals, we have to stop this," he said.
Shah said earlier, the population of tribals in the Santhal Pargana was 44%, "but now it has come down to 28%". "You people should form a BJP government in Jharkhand for five years and I promise that our government will straighten out the Bangladeshis who have infiltrated Santhal Pargana by hanging them upside down."
Recalling the deaths of youths during physical tests for constables in the State, Shah said that the Soren government had promised to give 5 lakh jobs every year, but instead "made the youth run in search of jobs till they died". Referring to the mining scam worth ₹1,000 crore, he said "mountains of notes" were found from locations linked to Indian Congress MP Dhiraj Sahu and former Congress Minister Alamgirl Alam.
The Minister said that although the JMM and Congress always talk about tribal welfare, when the Congress was in power at the Centre, it had made a provision of ₹20,000 crore for tribal welfare in 2013-14, but when the Narendra Modi government was formed, the budget was increased to ₹1.20 lakh crore. He promised that if the BJP is voted to power, people above 75 would get ₹10 lakh medical insurance.
The Minister also visited Bhognadih, the birthplace of Santhal leaders Sido and Kanu who led the Santhal rebellion in 1855, and paid floral tributes to them.
In a related development, the Jharkhand High Court on Friday (September 20, 2024) reserved its order in a public interest litigation seeking a probe into Bangladeshi infiltration and changing the demographics of the Santhal Pargana.
BJP will throw Bangladeshis out of India: Amit Shah
These comments come at a time when Bangladeshi ministers are expected to meet with their Indian counterparts on the sidelines of the UNGA
Bangladesh lodged strong protest against the Indian Home Minister’s remarks
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh lodged a strong protest against the highly deplorable remarks reportedly made by the Union Home Minister of India Mr. Amit Shah about Bangladeshi nationals during his recent visit to Jharkhand, India.
Through the protest note handed over today to the Deputy High Commissioner of India in Dhaka, the Ministry conveyed its serious reservation, deep sense of hurt and extreme displeasure and called upon the Government of India to advise the political leaders to refrain from making such objectionable and unacceptable remarks.
The Ministry also emphasized that such remarks, coming from responsible positions against the nationals of a neighbouring country, undermine the spirit of mutual respect and understanding between two friendly countries.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bangladesh
Bangladesh lodged strong protest against the Indian Home Minister’s remarks The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh lodged a strong protest against the highly deplorable remarks reportedly...
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Regarding a recent statement by India regarding security concerns for Hindus, Bangladesh has issued a response stating that the government finds such allegations baseless and assertions uncalled for.
"The interim government would like to reassure the international community that it continues to do its best to uphold the long standing secular and inclusive credentials of the people of Bangladesh," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today (14 October).
The ministry said the attention of the government has been drawn to a statement by spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs of India on 12 October, calling upon "….the government of Bangladesh to ensure safety and security of Hindus and all minorities and their places of worship, especially during this auspicious festival time."
The same statement also alleges "…a systemic pattern of desecration and damage to temples and deities…"
"There were just a handful of incidents reported on which the government authorities acted promptly in ensuring safety and security of Hindus and other minorities throughout the festival times," said the ministry.
Communal harmony and peaceful coexistence remains a time-honoured feature of liberalism and democracy in Bangladesh uniting all people, it stated, adding that the government attests in strongest terms that every individual regardless of his/her faith, religion or belief has the right to establish, maintain or perform respective religious rituals or practices, without any hindrance.
"This was vindicated by peaceful observance of Durga Puja in over 32,000 Puja Mandaps that were spontaneously set up across Bangladesh."
Mentioning the reported theft of a golden crown at the Jeshoreshwari Kali temple in the southern Bangladesh district of Satkhira on 10 October, the ministry said it had been confirmed that the head priest performed his regular puja rites until 2:30pm till which time the crown was intact inside the temple.
"Investigations are underway to determine as to why the priest and temple staff left such a precious possession unguarded and insecure. Four individuals have already been arrested in connection with the theft case."
"Ensuring safety and security of all citizens, particularly the members of religious minorities, in Bangladesh remains a duty of the government of Bangladesh.
"Upholding the rights of every citizen regardless of one's identity, religion or faith must be recognized as an internal affair of Bangladesh," said the government.
www.tbsnews.net
Bangladesh is likely to set aside pricing concerns and retain a power purchase pact with India's Adani Power in the face of supply worries and gloomy prospects for a legal challenge, reports Reuters.
Mentioning two sources with "direct knowledge of the matter", the report says the interim government has set up a panel to gauge whether its predecessor's contracts adequately protected the nation's interests, particularly projects faulted for lack of transparency that were initiated under a special expediting law.
The Reuters report, citing a source, notes that a legal challenge in an international court would likely fail without solid evidence of wrongdoing.
Another source suggests that, while an exit may not be feasible, the only viable option could be negotiating a mutual agreement to lower the tariff.
Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, the power and energy adviser, told Reuters, "The committee is currently reviewing the matter, and it would be premature to comment."
The Adani power costs Bangladesh about Tk12 ($0.1008) a unit, an official of the Bangladesh Power Development Board told Reuters, citing the latest audit report for FY24.
That is 27% higher than the rate of India's other private producers and as much as 63% more than Indian state-owned plants, he added.
Under the deal, Bangladesh has been sourcing electricity since April 2023 from Adani, along with about 1,160 MW from other Indian plants.
Adani has had "no indication" that Bangladesh is reviewing the agreement, a spokesperson in India told Reuters.
"We continue to supply power to Bangladesh despite mounting dues, which are of significant concern and are rendering plant operations unsustainable," the spokesperson said.
Dhaka is struggling to clear dues of $800 million to Adani Power, among more than $1 billion owed to Indian power companies, because of difficulty in accessing dollars to make payment.
"We are in constant dialogue with senior officials of the Bangladesh Power Development Board and the government, who have assured us our dues will be cleared soon," the Adani spokesperson added.
Adani Power was confident Dhaka would fulfill its commitments, just as the company had met its contract terms, the spokesperson added, but did not respond to a query on why its rates exceeded those of other suppliers, the report reads.
According to Reuters, domestic critics in Bangladesh, such as the BNP, say pricing concerns make a review of the deal necessary.
"The deal with Adani has raised serious concerns about overpricing from the start, and it's a positive step that the government is now reviewing it," senior BNP leader Zainul Abdin Farroque told Reuters.
"I hope they make the right decision."
The interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took power in Bangladesh in August after deadly protests prompted then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee to neighbouring India.
It has since scrapped projects such as a floating LNG terminal planned by domestic conglomerate Summit Group, with officials saying more cancellations are possible.
www.tbsnews.net
"The interim government would like to reassure the international community that it continues to do its best to uphold the long standing secular and inclusive credentials of the people of Bangladesh," said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs today (14 October).
The ministry said the attention of the government has been drawn to a statement by spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs of India on 12 October, calling upon "….the government of Bangladesh to ensure safety and security of Hindus and all minorities and their places of worship, especially during this auspicious festival time."
The same statement also alleges "…a systemic pattern of desecration and damage to temples and deities…"
"There were just a handful of incidents reported on which the government authorities acted promptly in ensuring safety and security of Hindus and other minorities throughout the festival times," said the ministry.
Communal harmony and peaceful coexistence remains a time-honoured feature of liberalism and democracy in Bangladesh uniting all people, it stated, adding that the government attests in strongest terms that every individual regardless of his/her faith, religion or belief has the right to establish, maintain or perform respective religious rituals or practices, without any hindrance.
"This was vindicated by peaceful observance of Durga Puja in over 32,000 Puja Mandaps that were spontaneously set up across Bangladesh."
Mentioning the reported theft of a golden crown at the Jeshoreshwari Kali temple in the southern Bangladesh district of Satkhira on 10 October, the ministry said it had been confirmed that the head priest performed his regular puja rites until 2:30pm till which time the crown was intact inside the temple.
"Investigations are underway to determine as to why the priest and temple staff left such a precious possession unguarded and insecure. Four individuals have already been arrested in connection with the theft case."
"Ensuring safety and security of all citizens, particularly the members of religious minorities, in Bangladesh remains a duty of the government of Bangladesh.
"Upholding the rights of every citizen regardless of one's identity, religion or faith must be recognized as an internal affair of Bangladesh," said the government.
Bangladesh debunks India's allegations of security concerns for Hindus as 'baseless'
"The interim government would like to reassure the international community that it continues to do its best to uphold the long standing secular and inclusive credentials of the people of Bangladesh."
Bangladesh is likely to set aside pricing concerns and retain a power purchase pact with India's Adani Power in the face of supply worries and gloomy prospects for a legal challenge, reports Reuters.
Mentioning two sources with "direct knowledge of the matter", the report says the interim government has set up a panel to gauge whether its predecessor's contracts adequately protected the nation's interests, particularly projects faulted for lack of transparency that were initiated under a special expediting law.
The Reuters report, citing a source, notes that a legal challenge in an international court would likely fail without solid evidence of wrongdoing.
Another source suggests that, while an exit may not be feasible, the only viable option could be negotiating a mutual agreement to lower the tariff.
Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, the power and energy adviser, told Reuters, "The committee is currently reviewing the matter, and it would be premature to comment."
The Adani power costs Bangladesh about Tk12 ($0.1008) a unit, an official of the Bangladesh Power Development Board told Reuters, citing the latest audit report for FY24.
That is 27% higher than the rate of India's other private producers and as much as 63% more than Indian state-owned plants, he added.
Under the deal, Bangladesh has been sourcing electricity since April 2023 from Adani, along with about 1,160 MW from other Indian plants.
Adani has had "no indication" that Bangladesh is reviewing the agreement, a spokesperson in India told Reuters.
"We continue to supply power to Bangladesh despite mounting dues, which are of significant concern and are rendering plant operations unsustainable," the spokesperson said.
Dhaka is struggling to clear dues of $800 million to Adani Power, among more than $1 billion owed to Indian power companies, because of difficulty in accessing dollars to make payment.
"We are in constant dialogue with senior officials of the Bangladesh Power Development Board and the government, who have assured us our dues will be cleared soon," the Adani spokesperson added.
Adani Power was confident Dhaka would fulfill its commitments, just as the company had met its contract terms, the spokesperson added, but did not respond to a query on why its rates exceeded those of other suppliers, the report reads.
According to Reuters, domestic critics in Bangladesh, such as the BNP, say pricing concerns make a review of the deal necessary.
"The deal with Adani has raised serious concerns about overpricing from the start, and it's a positive step that the government is now reviewing it," senior BNP leader Zainul Abdin Farroque told Reuters.
"I hope they make the right decision."
The interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took power in Bangladesh in August after deadly protests prompted then Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee to neighbouring India.
It has since scrapped projects such as a floating LNG terminal planned by domestic conglomerate Summit Group, with officials saying more cancellations are possible.
Bangladesh likely to keep power deal with India's Adani: Report
The Reuters report, citing a source, notes that a legal challenge in an international court would likely fail without solid evidence of wrongdoing
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A little over six weeks after the fall of Sheikh Hasina's autocratic regime on August 5, the top Indian diplomat in Dhaka, Pranay Verma, met BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on September 22 at the party’s Gulshan office, signaling a shift in policy, as Delhi had been widely criticized for "putting all its eggs in one basket."
Following the change in Bangladesh's political landscape, top envoys from countries and regional organizations such as the UK, EU, Australia, China, Pakistan, and Russia had already exchanged greetings before the Indian High Commissioner engaged with BNP leadership.
India, considered an all-weather friend of the Awami League, the immediate past ruling party, understandably took time to make fresh moves. After Sheikh Hasina fled the country and took refuge in India, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar stated that his government wanted to engage with the “government of the day” in Bangladesh.
However, India’s recent outreach to parties beyond AL signals a shift in approach. Many suggest that New Delhi should have earlier prioritized broader, people-to-people diplomacy, building ties across the political spectrum rather than relying solely on its close relationship with AL.
After the meeting, local media quoted BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, as saying "discussions were held on how to deepen and strengthen the relationship between Bangladesh and India. We raised the issues Bangladesh is facing with India."
The BNP Secretary General further said, "their (Indian High Commission’s) main message is that they want to strengthen their relationship with Bangladesh. Especially after this change, they have already reached out and communicated with the new interim government. As a political party, BNP … they also want to strengthen their ties with us."
Meanwhile, in an interview with Indian newspaper The Hindu on September 26, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fkhrul Islam Alamgir “expressed optimism for engaging with India,” saying BNP had reached out to India on multiple occasions in the past, including ahead of the January 2024 election, but those initiatives did not work out. “India had kept all its fruits in a single basket and that is why our initiatives did not work out then. Now we need to restart relation with India at a fast pace. We always wanted a functional relationship with India,” The Hindu quoted him as saying.
However, apart from raising concerns about the “uneven nature” of the “electricity trade deal with Adani” and the Modi-Hasina initiative to connect the “Gede crossing in West Bengal to Hasimara-Dalgaon near the Indo-Bhutan border through Chilahati-Haldibari,” the BNP leader told The Hindu that “issues like border killings and water sharing can be effectively addressed if the relationship stays on track.”
For more than 15 years, the Indian establishment had consistently stood by Sheikh Hasina, even as her support among the public and voters gradually and surely eroded following the deeply flawed general elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024. Despite this growing discontent, India continued to engage with Hasina or her party only over other political parties.
Beyond the rigged national and local elections which once fueled corruption, Bangladesh had grappled with rampant money laundering and a grave human rights situation, including extrajudicial killings. Enforced disappearances by government security forces, a practice introduced by the Hasina regime, had led to many being held in secret prisons for years, a shocking revelation for the nation.
Among the many victims, a former Brigadier General, Abdullahil Aman Azmi, and a barrister, Ahmad Bin Quasem Arman, were released from the notorious secret detention facilities, commonly known as "Aynaghar," after eight long years, leaving their families -- who had no idea whether they were alive or dead -- in disbelief.
These issues were central to the erosion of support for the ruling party and its leader, Sheikh Hasina, in Bangladesh. Once unchallenged, they became targets of growing public resentment as frustration over authoritarian rule and malpractices intensified, leading to the downfall of Hasina's regime through the popular uprising.
Sheikh Hasina and the AL’s close ties with the Indian establishment were not well-received by most Bangladeshis, as her seemingly passive diplomacy failed to effectively address issues such as non-tariff barriers, unresolved river water disputes, and ongoing border killings. Nevertheless, Hasina often highlighted her government's contributions to India, once stating that India should “forever remember” what her administration had done for the neighboring country, while emphasizing that she sought nothing in return.
For a broader perspective, New Delhi should also engage other parties in Bangladesh, as well as the governments and political entities of neighbouring countries. Many of these countries, such as Nepal and the Maldives, have experienced hiccups in their relations with India following their recent government changes, not to mention its historically strained ties with Pakistan and China.
In the natural political ecosystem, all nations are interdependent in areas such as the economy, security, and water resources. Moving forward without cooperation is challenging for any country. The revival of Saarc, which has been considered dysfunctional since the cancellation of the 2016 summit in Islamabad, could play a crucial role in improving regional ties and addressing current challenges.
The 2016 Saarc summit was called off after the Uri terrorist attack in India, which escalated diplomatic tensions in the region. Following India’s withdrawal, several countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Afghanistan, also declined to participate. The last Saarc summit was held in Kathmandu in 2014, and none has been convened since then.
The persistent hostility between India and Pakistan and the divisive politics practiced by many political parties in South Asia seeking to mobilize polarize voters in their respective countries, remain major impediments to Saarc’s progress. Under the circumstances, functional relations among political parties in the region could contribute to the ultimate goal of “people to people” ties in South Asia.
If Europe can leave behind centuries of military conflicts and societal divisions to come together and operate closely, why can't South Asia, which has not experienced similar prolonged conflicts, reconcile and move forward for mutual opportunities and benefits in areas like the economy, society, and security?
Could the European Union -- a bloc of 27 countries that has achieved “political and economic integration through a single currency, a unified foreign and security policy, and common citizenship rights, while advancing cooperation in immigration, asylum, and judicial affairs” -- serve as a role model for South Asia in promoting peace and democracy, to this end?
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/362054/india-reaching-out-to-bnp-in-bangladesh’s-changed
www.thehindu.com
Following the change in Bangladesh's political landscape, top envoys from countries and regional organizations such as the UK, EU, Australia, China, Pakistan, and Russia had already exchanged greetings before the Indian High Commissioner engaged with BNP leadership.
India, considered an all-weather friend of the Awami League, the immediate past ruling party, understandably took time to make fresh moves. After Sheikh Hasina fled the country and took refuge in India, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar stated that his government wanted to engage with the “government of the day” in Bangladesh.
However, India’s recent outreach to parties beyond AL signals a shift in approach. Many suggest that New Delhi should have earlier prioritized broader, people-to-people diplomacy, building ties across the political spectrum rather than relying solely on its close relationship with AL.
After the meeting, local media quoted BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, as saying "discussions were held on how to deepen and strengthen the relationship between Bangladesh and India. We raised the issues Bangladesh is facing with India."
The BNP Secretary General further said, "their (Indian High Commission’s) main message is that they want to strengthen their relationship with Bangladesh. Especially after this change, they have already reached out and communicated with the new interim government. As a political party, BNP … they also want to strengthen their ties with us."
Meanwhile, in an interview with Indian newspaper The Hindu on September 26, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fkhrul Islam Alamgir “expressed optimism for engaging with India,” saying BNP had reached out to India on multiple occasions in the past, including ahead of the January 2024 election, but those initiatives did not work out. “India had kept all its fruits in a single basket and that is why our initiatives did not work out then. Now we need to restart relation with India at a fast pace. We always wanted a functional relationship with India,” The Hindu quoted him as saying.
However, apart from raising concerns about the “uneven nature” of the “electricity trade deal with Adani” and the Modi-Hasina initiative to connect the “Gede crossing in West Bengal to Hasimara-Dalgaon near the Indo-Bhutan border through Chilahati-Haldibari,” the BNP leader told The Hindu that “issues like border killings and water sharing can be effectively addressed if the relationship stays on track.”
For more than 15 years, the Indian establishment had consistently stood by Sheikh Hasina, even as her support among the public and voters gradually and surely eroded following the deeply flawed general elections of 2014, 2018, and 2024. Despite this growing discontent, India continued to engage with Hasina or her party only over other political parties.
Beyond the rigged national and local elections which once fueled corruption, Bangladesh had grappled with rampant money laundering and a grave human rights situation, including extrajudicial killings. Enforced disappearances by government security forces, a practice introduced by the Hasina regime, had led to many being held in secret prisons for years, a shocking revelation for the nation.
Among the many victims, a former Brigadier General, Abdullahil Aman Azmi, and a barrister, Ahmad Bin Quasem Arman, were released from the notorious secret detention facilities, commonly known as "Aynaghar," after eight long years, leaving their families -- who had no idea whether they were alive or dead -- in disbelief.
These issues were central to the erosion of support for the ruling party and its leader, Sheikh Hasina, in Bangladesh. Once unchallenged, they became targets of growing public resentment as frustration over authoritarian rule and malpractices intensified, leading to the downfall of Hasina's regime through the popular uprising.
Sheikh Hasina and the AL’s close ties with the Indian establishment were not well-received by most Bangladeshis, as her seemingly passive diplomacy failed to effectively address issues such as non-tariff barriers, unresolved river water disputes, and ongoing border killings. Nevertheless, Hasina often highlighted her government's contributions to India, once stating that India should “forever remember” what her administration had done for the neighboring country, while emphasizing that she sought nothing in return.
For a broader perspective, New Delhi should also engage other parties in Bangladesh, as well as the governments and political entities of neighbouring countries. Many of these countries, such as Nepal and the Maldives, have experienced hiccups in their relations with India following their recent government changes, not to mention its historically strained ties with Pakistan and China.
In the natural political ecosystem, all nations are interdependent in areas such as the economy, security, and water resources. Moving forward without cooperation is challenging for any country. The revival of Saarc, which has been considered dysfunctional since the cancellation of the 2016 summit in Islamabad, could play a crucial role in improving regional ties and addressing current challenges.
The 2016 Saarc summit was called off after the Uri terrorist attack in India, which escalated diplomatic tensions in the region. Following India’s withdrawal, several countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Afghanistan, also declined to participate. The last Saarc summit was held in Kathmandu in 2014, and none has been convened since then.
The persistent hostility between India and Pakistan and the divisive politics practiced by many political parties in South Asia seeking to mobilize polarize voters in their respective countries, remain major impediments to Saarc’s progress. Under the circumstances, functional relations among political parties in the region could contribute to the ultimate goal of “people to people” ties in South Asia.
If Europe can leave behind centuries of military conflicts and societal divisions to come together and operate closely, why can't South Asia, which has not experienced similar prolonged conflicts, reconcile and move forward for mutual opportunities and benefits in areas like the economy, society, and security?
Could the European Union -- a bloc of 27 countries that has achieved “political and economic integration through a single currency, a unified foreign and security policy, and common citizenship rights, while advancing cooperation in immigration, asylum, and judicial affairs” -- serve as a role model for South Asia in promoting peace and democracy, to this end?
https://www.dhakatribune.com/opinion/op-ed/362054/india-reaching-out-to-bnp-in-bangladesh’s-changed
India reaches out to Bangladesh opposition BNP, envoy meets party leader
Indicating broader political outreach in Bangladesh, High Commissioner of India Pranay Verma and other Indian officials met General Secretary of chief opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
