India’s Parliamentary Committee on External Affairs has expressed concern over China’s growing presence in Bangladesh. The panel pointed to Beijing’s involvement in infrastructure development, port expansion, and military cooperation.

The concerns come at a time when relations between India and Bangladesh are under strain. Tensions have risen following anti-India rhetoric from Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor and a worsening security situation in the neighbouring country.

Report Tabled in Parliament

The committee presented its report, titled “Future of India–Bangladesh Relationship,” in both Houses of Parliament. This happened a day after the Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Bangladeshi envoy.

The MEA called the envoy to convey India’s concerns over recent security developments in Bangladesh.

Focus on Ports, Airbase, and Strategic Corridor

The report highlighted China’s role in key Bangladeshi projects. These include assistance in building the Mongla Port and developing the Lalmonirhat airbase.

It also drew attention to Beijing’s growing activity near the Siliguri Corridor, often referred to as the “chicken’s neck.” This narrow stretch connects India’s northeastern states with the rest of the country and is considered strategically critical.

“China’s increasing presence in Bangladesh, especially through infrastructure, military cooperation, and port developments, has been of concern,” the report said.

Government Says It Is Closely Monitoring China’s Moves

The parliamentary panel sought clarifications from the Ministry of External Affairs on the strategic impact of these developments.

In response, the ministry said the government “remains vigilant about China’s presence in Bangladesh and the nature and implications of Chinese projects currently under way.”

The report further noted, “When asked about the strategic implications of these developments on India, particularly in relation to the Siliguri Corridor, the ministry stated that the government continues to monitor developments having a bearing on India’s national interests and takes all necessary measures to safeguard them.”

India Highlights Its Own Infrastructure Role

The MEA informed the committee that Bangladesh signed a government-to-government agreement with China in March 2025. The deal involves a $370 million expansion of Mongla port.

However, the ministry said India had taken early steps to strengthen connectivity to the port. It noted that India “has been ahead of the curve by financing a key rail connectivity project, the Khulna–Mongla railway line, to improve the port’s links with the hinterland.”

India also has an agreement with Bangladesh that allows transit access through the Mongla and Chattogram ports.

India Shuts Visa Centres Amid Protests

Separately, fresh developments in Bangladesh have further affected bilateral ties.

India on Thursday shut down visa application centres at two locations in Bangladesh. The move came after protests by pro-Yunus groups near the Indian High Commission.

The Indian Visa Application Centre in Bangladesh said, “In view of the on-going security situation, we wish to bring to your kind notice that IVAC Rajshahi and Khulna will be closed today (18.12.2025). All applicants who have appointment slots booked for submission today will be given a slot at a later date.”

Protests Near Indian Mission

According to News18, protesters linked to pro-Yunus groups began marching toward the Indian mission office in Rajshahi earlier in the day.

The march was organised by a group named Bharityo Adhipotto Birodhi July 36 Mancha, adding to concerns over safety around Indian diplomatic facilities.