Bangladesh Raises Concerns Over RSS Activities Along Border-20260524191922-3235

Bangladesh has formally expressed concerns to India regarding reported activities of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) near the shared border, officials confirmed on Tuesday. The diplomatic note, delivered through the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, cites intelligence reports of RSS-linked groups allegedly attempting to influence local communities in border districts.

According to sources within Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the note highlights specific incidents in the Kurigram and Lalmonirhat regions, where cross-border movement and distribution of materials have been observed. Dhaka views these actions as potential threats to bilateral stability and communal harmony. "We have requested New Delhi to investigate and take necessary measures to prevent any activities that could disrupt peace along the border," a ministry spokesperson said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

The RSS, a Hindu nationalist organization based in India, has long been a subject of scrutiny in Bangladesh, where the majority population is Muslim. While the group maintains it focuses on cultural and social work, critics accuse it of promoting divisive ideologies. Bangladesh's concerns come amid a broader regional context of heightened vigilance over extremist influences.

India's Ministry of External Affairs has not issued an official statement, but diplomatic sources indicate that New Delhi is reviewing the complaint. "India respects Bangladesh's sovereignty and is committed to maintaining peaceful relations," a source said. "Any specific allegations will be examined through established channels."

The development has sparked debate in both countries. In Bangladesh, analysts point to historical tensions surrounding the RSS's role in the 1971 Liberation War, when some of its affiliates opposed Bangladesh's independence. "There is a lingering mistrust," said Dr. Ayesha Rahman, a political science professor at the University of Dhaka. "Any perceived interference is taken seriously."

Meanwhile, in India, some commentators argue that the concerns are exaggerated. "The RSS is a legitimate organization under Indian law," said Rajesh Sharma, a Delhi-based journalist. "But Bangladesh has the right to raise issues that affect its internal security."

The border between Bangladesh and India spans over 4,000 kilometers, much of it porous and prone to smuggling and unauthorized movement. Both countries have cooperated in recent years to enhance security, including joint patrols and information sharing. However, incidents involving non-state actors remain a sensitive topic.

Local residents in border areas have reported mixed reactions. In the village of Burimari, near the Indian state of West Bengal, shopkeeper Kamal Hossain said he has seen unfamiliar faces in recent months. "We don't know who they are, but we feel uneasy when outsiders come asking questions about religion and politics," he said. Others, like farmer Ratan Das, see no immediate threat. "We have lived peacefully for decades. This is just politics," he added.

The Bangladesh government has also called for enhanced monitoring of cross-border activities by both countries' border forces. The Border Guards Bangladesh and India's Border Security Force have been instructed to remain vigilant, though no specific incidents of conflict have been reported.

As diplomatic channels remain active, analysts stress the need for dialogue. "Both nations have much to gain from cooperation," said Dr. Rahman. "But issues like this require transparency and mutual respect."

The RSS has not directly commented on Bangladesh's note. In past statements, the organization has denied any involvement in cross-border activities and emphasized its commitment to non-violence. However, its global network, including affiliates in countries with Hindu diaspora, continues to draw scrutiny.

This story was based on official statements, diplomatic sources, and interviews with analysts and local residents. Further updates are expected as both governments engage in discussions.