Dhaka to Take Action Over ‘Unfortunate’ Harassment of PM’s Advisor at Delhi Airport

The Bangladesh government has vowed to take appropriate measures regarding the "unfortunate" detention and harassment of Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman, the Prime Minister’s Information Advisor, by Indian immigration authorities at New Delhi's airport.

Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman announced the government's stance during a press briefing at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday afternoon. In protest against the breach of diplomatic protocol, Dr. Zahed refused to enter India and returned to Dhaka on Monday.

Dr. Zahed was scheduled to lead the Bangladesh delegation at the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) conference, which commenced today in New Delhi. The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi had formally notified the Indian Ministry of External Affairs of his visit via an official diplomatic note on Friday, June 12. Despite prior diplomatic clearance, Indian immigration authorities detained the advisor for two and a half hours without offering any clarification upon his arrival on Sunday evening, June 14.

Viewing the immigration authority's ambiguous and prolonged delay as a blow to his self-respect, Dr. Zahed demanded his passport back and decided to abort the visit. Realizing the severity of the situation, immigration officials repeatedly requested him to enter India, but the advisor remained firm on his decision to return home. Following the unprecedented ordeal, Dr. Zahed arrived in Dhaka on Monday afternoon. The Foreign Minister emphasized that such treatment of a high-ranking state official is unacceptable and confirmed that the issue will be addressed through formal diplomatic channels.