Touhid sees no security reason

The government sees no security justification for the Indian mission's decision to send back family members of its diplomats as Bangladesh remains "safe for foreign officials and their families".

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain also said Wednesday Dhaka had not received any indication from India suggesting that its diplomats were facing security threats in Bangladesh.

"There is no situation here that would put Indian officials or their family members at risk," Hossain told journalists at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. "Not a single such incident has occurred."

Responding to questions as to whether the move signalled security concerns or carried a political message, Hossain said the decision appeared to be an internal matter for India.

"I do not understand what signal is being referred to. They are free to ask their staff's family members to leave at any time. I cannot find any specific reason behind this decision."

He adds that while India may have its own internal assessments or intentions, Bangladesh has not been formally informed of any danger or threat.

"They may have concerns in their own minds, or they may be trying to send a message -- this is possible. But I do not see any clear message in this."

Hossain also downplays concerns over law and order, noting that minor incidents are not unusual during political periods, including elections.

"If we look at past elections, small scuffles or pushing incidents have always occurred. This time, it does not appear to be anything beyond that. Overall, there has been no disruption to security."

When asked whether India had officially communicated any security warning or request, the foreign affairs adviser of the post-uprising government said no such message had been conveyed to the Bangladeshi authorities.

Responding to a question he said the party which was barred from participating in the polls may try to create law-and-order situation ahead of the elections.

"But it's an apprehension. Otherwise, the parties contesting the polls are acting responsibly and showing tolerance for holding a peaceful election" he added.

mirmostafiz@yahoo.com