New Delhi: Indian media outlets are consistently accused of spreading misinformation about Bangladesh in a deliberate attempt to destabilize the country and discredit its student-led democratic movement.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, following the ouster of the Hasina-led Awami League government, Indian media frequently platforms figures like retired General G.D. Bakhshi and other hardline commentators. These individuals are said to amplify Islamophobic rhetoric, portraying Bangladesh as succumbing to “Islamist forces,” while accusing Pakistan and China of orchestrating the move.

This strategy is viewed as a means to deflect attention from India’s internal issues and reinforce its hegemonic ambitions in the region. Recent reports from Indian media claim that Pakistan’s ISI and Bangladesh’s interim government are collaborating to create groups like the Houthis and Hezbollah. Local sources in Bangladesh, however, have dismissed these claims as baseless propaganda.

The portrayal of Bangladesh’s student-led democratic movement by Indian media reflects what is described as New Delhi’s hybrid warfare strategy. The movement, which includes participants from various backgrounds, was a response to the Awami League regime’s policies, not an “Islamist conspiracy” as portrayed.

The manipulation of facts by Indian media underscores concerns over losing a valuable ally in the subcontinent. This campaign also seeks to serve India’s broader geopolitical interests by maligning Pakistan and China while undermining Bangladesh’s sovereignty.

Hindutva supporters in India have reportedly used the situation in Bangladesh to fuel anti-Muslim rhetoric, leveraging claims about attacks on Hindu minorities to advance political agendas. These narratives are criticized for ignoring the oppression of minorities within India, including Muslims, Christians, and Dalits.

India’s actions in Bangladesh are seen as part of an ongoing strategy to maintain influence in the region while countering China’s presence. Such actions are said to undermine not only Bangladesh’s democratic aspirations but also regional stability.

The international community is urged to recognize and condemn India’s tactics, which are seen as fueling unrest in neighboring countries and distracting from its own issues of human rights violations and political oppression.