1 hour ago
Last Updated:February 05, 2026, 23:23 IST
In its manifesto for the upcoming elections, Jamaat-e-Islami has called for peaceful and cooperative relations with neighboring countries.
Jamaat-e-Islami president Shafiqur Rahman
Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami chief Shafiqur Rahman hinted at a potential improvement in relations with India when asked by a journalist about Dhaka’s ties with New Delhi if his party comes to power.
In the clip, a journalist can be heard asking in Bangla, “Aapnar India-r shonge relationship ta kemon hobe?" (How will your relationship be with India?).
The Jamaat-e-Islami leader then looked at the chandeliers and replied, “India-r shonge relationship tah – ei je colourful." (The relationship with India will be– like this, colourful.)
He was then seen walking away amid laughter.
In its manifesto for the upcoming elections, Jamaat-e-Islami has called for peaceful and cooperative relations with neighboring countries- including India, Bhutan, Nepal, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Maldives and Thailand- based on “mutual respect and fairness." Several leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami have previously made strong anti-India statements and criticized New Delhi for hosting ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after she fled Bangladesh.
Bangladesh’s foreign affairs adviser Mohammed Touhid Hossain noted that relations between Bangladesh and India have not been “very smooth" and have faced setbacks during the interim government’s tenure. He expressed hope that the next elected government would be able to address these challenges.
“I do not want to blame anyone. India has certainly acted in the way it considers best for its interests. We have also tried to act in a way that protects our interests. In many cases, the expectations of the two sides did not match," he said.
On Sheikh Hasina’s return to Bangladesh, he added, “We have asked for her return. We have not received a response. It would not be right for us to speculate beyond that."
Elections in the country are scheduled for February 12, 2026.
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First Published:
February 05, 2026, 23:20 IST
News world ‘Colourful’: Bangladesh Jamaat Chief’s Remark On Relations With India If Elected
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