January 13, 2025:India summoned Bangladesh Deputy High Commissioner Nural Islam on Monday, intensifying diplomatic exchanges over rising tensions along the India-Bangladesh border. The move came a day after Bangladesh summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma to address its concerns over alleged border fence construction.

Nural Islam was seen exiting South Block following his meeting with officials from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Reports suggest the discussions revolved around recent allegations by Dhaka regarding fence construction in five disputed areas along the border, which Bangladesh claims violate a bilateral agreement.

Lt Gen (retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Bangladesh’s Home Affairs Adviser, pinpointed Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, Lalmonirhat, and the Tin Bigha Corridor among the affected locations. Chowdhury criticized agreements signed under the previous Sheikh Hasina government between 2010 and 2023, calling them "imbalanced" and blaming them for exacerbating the disputes.

Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma, speaking after his Sunday meeting in Dhaka, emphasized the importance of mutual understanding on border security. "Our two border guard enforcements – BSF and BGB – have been in communication in this regard. We expect this understanding will be implemented, ensuring a cooperative approach to combating crimes along the border," Verma stated.

The disputes have brought the focus back on long-standing border issues between the two neighbors, with both sides calling for adherence to agreements while expressing intent to resolve conflicts through dialogue.

As tensions simmer, the diplomatic efforts underline the delicate balance required to maintain harmony along one of South Asia’s most significant international borders.