Bangladesh Summons Indian Envoy to Protest Remarks by Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma

The Bangladesh government has officially summoned the Indian High Commissioner to lodge a formal protest regarding remarks made by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. The diplomatic friction stems from Sarma’s rhetoric during his high-profile campaign for the ongoing West Bengal Assembly elections, where he has been leading an “Assam Brigade” of 50 leaders through northern districts such as Cooch Behar and Kalchini. Bangladesh’s decision to summon the envoy signals a sharp objection to remarks perceived as derogatory or an interference in its sovereignty and bilateral relations during an Indian domestic election cycle.

This development adds a significant layer of international complexity to the 2026 election, highlighting how regional campaign narratives can impact cross-border diplomacy. While campaigning, Sarma has frequently used Assam’s governance as a model for West Bengal, focusing on sensitive issues such as border security, regional identity, and economic welfare. As the high-stakes electoral battle continues, this diplomatic standoff underscores the widening influence of regional leaders whose campaign strategies now resonate beyond state and national borders.