Kathmandu— Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s first official visit to India has been postponed, signaling a cooling in relations between the two South Asian nations following a political upheaval in July 2024 that led to the exile of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Rahman, who came to power in February, had expressed interest in strengthening ties with India, but Dhaka officials cite a recent press conference held by Hasina – now living in India – as having created an unfavorable environment for dialogue. Negotiations between both countries have been ongoing for weeks in an attempt to resolve the impasse, but the visit remains uncertain.

Diplomatic Hurdles Emerge

New Delhi had extended an invitation to Rahman for a visit ahead of September’s BRICS summit, and initial exchanges between officials from both sides were promising. India even appointed Dinesh Trivedi as its envoy to Dhaka in what was described as a rare political appointment. However, the August 5 press conference given by Hasina derailed those plans; Dhaka took offense at her public appearance while in exile. While India clarified it had no involvement in the event, Bangladesh maintains that it has ‘vitiated’ the atmosphere for productive talks.

Extradition Request and Mutual Interests

Bangladesh has repeatedly raised the issue of extraditing Sheikh Hasina, who was sentenced to death in absentia in November 2025. Dhaka views India's hosting of Hasina and her subsequent political statements as interference in its internal affairs. Humayun Kabir, Rahman’s foreign affairs adviser, stated that there is “no rush” to facilitate the prime minister’s visit, emphasizing Bangladesh’s desire for a relationship based on mutual respect and sovereign equality. India's Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has acknowledged the need for bilateral ties to serve the interests of both nations.

Shifting Alliances and Border Disputes

The tensions extend beyond Hasina’s case, as Bangladesh is reportedly exploring closer ties with Pakistan after decades of strained relations – a move viewed negatively in New Delhi. India played a key role in Bangladesh's independence from Pakistan in 1971. Furthermore, the India-Bangladesh border remains a point of contention, with India pushing to fence the 4,096km frontier and deporting undocumented immigrants, actions that Dhaka has criticized as extrajudicial. Analysts note that domestic politics on both sides are influencing foreign policy decisions.

Path Forward Remains Uncertain

Experts suggest that both countries must engage in dialogue to overcome the current challenges. Sanjay Bhardwaj, a professor of South Asian studies, points out the political nature of Hasina’s case and suggests moving beyond it for productive relations. Sreeradha Datta emphasizes the lack of alternative to engagement given their shared border and mutual interests. She noted that while New Delhi may need to adjust to a Bangladesh government less aligned with its previous policies, maintaining a relationship based on practical objectives is crucial.

The future of India-Bangladesh relations hinges on both sides’ willingness to address the existing points of contention and prioritize dialogue. While immediate progress appears stalled, continued engagement will be essential for navigating the complex dynamics between these neighboring nations.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.