Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Feb 24: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a strong message to Bangladesh, urging the neighbouring country to decide what kind of relationship it wants with India. Speaking at the Delhi University Literature Festival on Saturday, he criticized the "ridiculous" blame game by the interim government in Dhaka.

"If every day someone in the interim government stands up and blames India for everything, it doesn’t work that way. You cannot say you want good relations while blaming us for all your domestic issues," Jaishankar remarked. He emphasized the deep historical ties between India and Bangladesh, dating back to the 1971 Liberation War.

Tensions between the two countries have escalated following the 2024 ouster of former PM Sheikh Hasina amid student-led protests. Jaishankar also addressed concerns over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh, stating that such incidents "impact thinking" and need to be spoken about, which India has done.

On another front, Jaishankar commented on the scrutiny of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) after allegations surfaced regarding a $21 million fund transfer linked to voter turnout activities in India. The funding, which former US President Donald Trump called a "kickback scheme," has raised concerns in New Delhi.

"We are looking into the matter. USAID was allowed in good faith, but now allegations are surfacing about activities that may not align with that faith," he said.

The developments come as India navigates complex diplomatic challenges on multiple fronts.