The recent overwhelming victory of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in West Bengal has highlighted a contentious issue affecting India-Bangladesh relations—namely, the phenomenon of ‘push-ins.’ This term, which has become a focal point in Bangladeshi discussions, refers to the forced entry of individuals into Bangladesh from India, raising significant concerns for Dhaka’s foreign policy and bilateral ties with New Delhi.
Since May 2025, Bangladeshi authorities have reported around 2,500 instances of individuals being forcibly pushed into their territory from India. These operations are characterized by allegations of detentions conducted by Indian officials, who reportedly hold these individuals for extended periods—ranging from weeks to months—before expelling them back across the border under the cover of night. This practice has not only aggravated humanitarian issues but also ignited fears of escalating tensions between the two neighboring countries.
Among those affected by this troubling trend are confirmed Indian nationals as well as Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar. The situation has placed additional strain on an already delicate diplomatic relationship. In a striking admission, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently defended these push-back practices, stating, “Rude people don’t understand soft language.” His remarks reflect a broader sentiment that may be contributing to the rising frequency of these operations. Sarma’s comments suggested that the existing tensions with Bangladesh might inadvertently facilitate such practices, further complicating the bilateral dialogue.
This situation is exacerbating fears within Bangladesh regarding the potential for a humanitarian crisis. The influx of individuals, many of whom are vulnerable refugees, poses significant challenges to the Bangladeshi authorities tasked with managing border security and humanitarian assistance. Moreover, the handling of these push-ins is likely to influence public sentiment in Bangladesh against India, impacting the broader context of diplomatic relations.
As Bangladesh grapples with these pressing issues, the recent electoral success of the BJP in West Bengal may signal an uptick in such border-related incidents. The long-standing complexities in India-Bangladesh relations require careful navigation, particularly in light of the volatile political landscape. It remains to be seen how both governments will address the growing concerns surrounding these push-ins, but for now, the fear looms large in Dhaka as the situation develops.
