Bangladesh Condemns Attack on Agartala Diplomatic Mission

In a statement issued this evening, Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the attack as a grave violation of international norms, specifically referencing the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961, which guarantees the inviolability of diplomatic missions.

“It is the responsibility of the host government to ensure the security and protection of diplomatic missions from any form of intrusion or damage. This act in Agartala stands in stark violation of those obligations,” the statement read.

The Bangladeshi government urged Indian authorities to take immediate action to address the incident, calling for a thorough investigation to ensure accountability and prevent future occurrences. It emphasized the need for measures to guarantee the safety of Bangladeshi diplomatic staff, their families, and the mission's premises across India.

Details of the Incident

According to the statement, a large group of protesters breached the main gate of the Assistant High Commission in a premeditated manner. In the presence of local law enforcement, the attackers vandalized the flagpole, desecrated Bangladesh’s national flag, and caused significant damage to the mission's property.

“Regrettably, local police officers tasked with protecting the premises were found inactive in containing the situation from the outset,” the statement noted, expressing disappointment at the lack of timely intervention.

The assault has left members of the Assistant High Commission feeling profoundly insecure.

Pattern of Escalation

The ministry also drew attention to a similar violent demonstration targeting a Bangladeshi diplomatic mission in Kolkata just days earlier, on November 28, 2024, suggesting a concerning pattern of hostility.

“The desecration of our national flag and repeated assaults on our diplomatic missions are unacceptable and demand immediate and decisive action from the Indian government,” the statement concluded.

Bangladesh reiterated its commitment to maintaining peaceful and cooperative relations with India but underscored the importance of upholding diplomatic norms and safeguarding its envoys and missions from harm.