On August 5, 2024, a significant student and public uprising unfolded in Bangladesh, capturing widespread attention. However, according to Touhid Hossain, Foreign Affairs Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, Indian media has not taken this development positively. Speaking at a seminar organized by the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) to mark its 30th anniversary at the BRAC Centre in Dhaka, Hossain expressed serious concerns about deliberate disinformation campaigns aimed at portraying Bangladesh as a militant state.
Claims of Propaganda
Touhid Hossain, the Foreign Affairs Adviser to Bangladesh’s interim government, expressed grave concerns over the narratives being propagated by certain Indian media outlets. He alleged that these platforms were orchestrating a campaign of “planned propaganda” aimed at maligning Bangladesh’s reputation on the global stage. Hossain highlighted that some reports were focusing on exaggerated or unfounded claims, such as widespread minority persecution and parallels being drawn between Bangladesh’s governance and the rise of the Taliban.
He criticized these portrayals as not only “very unfair” but also damaging to the broader goals of regional harmony and cooperation. Such misrepresentations, he argued, do not reflect the reality on the ground and serve to create a distorted image of Bangladesh. This, according to Hossain, feeds into a narrative of hostility and bias, which could have long-term repercussions on bilateral relations and international perceptions.
The adviser further emphasized that these actions were counterproductive for both nations and the region as a whole. By perpetuating such divisive rhetoric, he warned, the Indian media risks derailing efforts to strengthen ties between South Asian nations. Hossain called for a more balanced and constructive approach to reporting, urging stakeholders to prioritize truth and diplomacy over sensationalism and discord.
Regional Relations at Risk
Touhid Hossain cautioned that the narratives being propagated by the Indian media could have far-reaching consequences for the bilateral relationship between India and Bangladesh. He warned that these actions not only damage Bangladesh’s international reputation but also risk undermining trust between the two neighbors. Such developments, Hossain argued, could create significant barriers to meaningful collaboration in the region.
Reflecting on the state of South Asia over the past 15 years, Hossain noted that the region has experienced a lack of substantial connectivity and cooperation. Despite shared histories and cultural ties, South Asian nations have struggled to build robust frameworks for regional integration. According to Hossain, these efforts are further hindered by divisive rhetoric and misinformation campaigns, which fuel suspicion and hostility.
He emphasized the urgent need for a shift in approach, stating, “The time has come to build bridges between South Asian countries rather than fostering discord.” Hossain urged policymakers, media outlets, and civil society to work together to promote dialogue, trust, and mutual understanding, which are essential for unlocking the region’s collective potential. By focusing on shared interests and common goals, South Asia could move towards a more prosperous and interconnected future, he concluded.
Restoration of Stability in Bangladesh
Touhid Hossain addressed apprehensions regarding the period of unrest that followed the student-led and public uprising on August 5. He reassured the audience that while the initial days saw some disruption, Bangladesh had successfully regained stability. Hossain highlighted that the government and relevant authorities had taken swift measures to restore order, ensuring the situation did not spiral further.
He stressed the importance of presenting accurate and balanced accounts of the events to the international community. According to Hossain, misleading narratives propagated by certain foreign media outlets not only distorted the reality but also posed a challenge to Bangladesh’s image as a stable and progressing nation.
Hossain called on stakeholders, including media organizations and diplomats, to work together in conveying the truth about Bangladesh’s resilience and stability. He emphasized that countering misinformation with factual reporting was essential to preserving the nation’s reputation and fostering continued growth and cooperation on the global stage.
Broader Democratic Challenges
Dr. Iftekharuzzaman, the Executive Director of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), offered a sobering analysis of the governance issues that continue to affect Bangladesh. Speaking at the CPD event, he emphasized that while the country has made strides toward democracy since 1990, several systemic problems have persisted. These include the suppression of dissenting voices, the prevalence of political favoritism, and the troubling normalization of violence in political culture.
Dr. Iftekharuzzaman noted that such challenges undermine the democratic ideals that Bangladesh has sought to uphold. He pointed out that political discourse often sidelines opposition and dissent, creating an environment where genuine accountability is lacking. Furthermore, favoritism in governance has led to unequal opportunities and a lack of merit-based decision-making, exacerbating public disillusionment with political leadership.
One of his most critical observations was the deep entrenchment of violent practices within the political system. From using intimidation to silence critics to leveraging power for personal or party gains, such practices have eroded public trust. Dr. Iftekharuzzaman remarked, “Even as leadership changes, the mindset remains resistant to reform,” suggesting that mere changes in leadership are insufficient if systemic attitudes and approaches remain stagnant.
He called for a renewed commitment to democratic principles, urging political leaders and civil society to challenge these entrenched issues. By fostering a culture of transparency, inclusivity, and accountability, Bangladesh can address these hurdles and strengthen its democratic framework for future generations.
Calls for Constructive Engagement
The discussions at the CPD event underscored the critical need for fair representation and mutual respect in international relations, particularly between neighboring countries like Bangladesh and India. Participants emphasized that sensationalized or biased narratives can deepen mistrust and weaken the potential for collaboration in South Asia.
The allegations of media-driven disinformation about Bangladesh highlighted a broader issue: the growing necessity for constructive diplomacy. Leaders at the event stressed that addressing misinformation and fostering open communication are essential to rebuilding and maintaining trust. Misinformation campaigns, if left unchecked, not only tarnish a nation’s reputation but also jeopardize opportunities for meaningful dialogue and cooperation.
Speakers called for both countries to prioritize engagement over division, focusing on resolving their differences through respectful and transparent dialogue. Such efforts, they argued, are vital for ensuring long-term regional stability and shared prosperity. By working together to promote understanding and addressing grievances, Bangladesh and India can set an example for effective conflict resolution and cooperative development in South Asia.
The event concluded with a strong appeal for collaborative strategies aimed at mitigating conflicts and reinforcing regional partnerships. This approach, according to participants, is the key to unlocking South Asia’s collective potential and ensuring a more united and prosperous future.
Inclusion, The discourse surrounding Bangladesh’s recent political developments and the alleged role of Indian media in shaping global perceptions brings to light pressing issues of regional cooperation and media ethics. These narratives not only challenge the integrity of cross-border relationships but also highlight the broader responsibility of media outlets in presenting fair and accurate accounts.
The allegations of bias and disinformation call for serious introspection, not just by the accused parties but by all stakeholders committed to regional harmony. They serve as a stark reminder of the power of media to influence public opinion and shape diplomatic relations. However, they also underline the potential for fostering a more balanced, fact-based dialogue that prioritizes truth over sensationalism.
Promoting mutual respect and understanding between nations is crucial for ensuring peace and stability in South Asia. By addressing grievances through constructive engagement and focusing on shared goals, countries in the region can overcome divisions and work toward a more united and prosperous future. Only through a commitment to transparency, collaboration, and ethical practices can the region unlock its full potential and build lasting trust among its nations.
