In a candid statement that has raised eyebrows across the region, Bangladesh’s Interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus has expressed his deep disappointment over India’s response to the recent protests in Bangladesh. The 84-year-old Nobel laureate, who has been a towering figure in the country’s socio-economic landscape, made it clear that he was hurt by India’s characterization of the protests as an “internal affair” of Bangladesh.

Speaking with a mix of emotion and conviction, Yunus remarked, “I was hurt when India called the protests an internal affair of Bangladesh. We cannot forgive India for this. If there is a fire in the brother’s house, how can I say it is an internal affair?” His words reflect a sense of betrayal, as he believed that the two neighboring countries, which share deep historical and cultural ties, should have stood together in times of crisis.

Yunus, who has long advocated for closer cooperation and solidarity between South Asian nations, expressed his disappointment at the lack of support from India during a critical time for Bangladesh. “India didn’t support us. We want to feel like a family, enjoy each other’s company like the European Union,” he added, drawing a parallel with the European Union’s model of mutual respect and collaboration among its member states.

The Interim Prime Minister’s comments underscore a broader concern about the state of diplomatic relations between the two countries. Bangladesh and India have historically shared a close relationship, particularly since the liberation war of 1971, where India played a crucial role in helping Bangladesh achieve independence. However, recent events have strained this relationship, and Yunus’s remarks indicate that these tensions may have deeper implications for future cooperation.

“We are a real family. So, when India says it’s internal affairs, it hurts me,” Yunus continued, emphasizing the need for a more empathetic and supportive approach from India. His words suggest that Bangladesh views its relationship with India as more than just a diplomatic alliance; it sees India as a familial entity, where mutual support is expected, especially in challenging times.

Yunus’s statement has sparked discussions among political analysts and diplomats, who are now debating the potential impact of this sentiment on India-Bangladesh relations. While some believe that this is a momentary expression of frustration, others argue that it could lead to a recalibration of how the two nations engage with each other on sensitive issues.

As Bangladesh continues to navigate its internal challenges, the Interim Prime Minister’s words serve as a reminder of the importance of regional solidarity and the expectations that smaller nations often have from their larger neighbors. Whether this will lead to a shift in India’s approach towards Bangladesh remains to be seen, but Yunus’s call for unity and mutual respect is likely to resonate with many across the region.

In the coming days, it will be crucial to observe how both nations address this diplomatic concern and whether they can find common ground to strengthen their ties. For now, Yunus’s disappointment serves as a powerful message that even the closest of relationships require care, understanding, and a willingness to stand together in times of need.