RAW Chief’s Sudden Dhaka Visit Raises Questions
India’s intelligence agency Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) chief Parag Jain arrived in Dhaka on a sudden visit, drawing attention amid heightened tensions between Bangladesh and India. The visit comes after fugitive former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been sentenced to death, was allowed by India to address a virtual press conference despite Dhaka’s request. Her remarks triggered strong reactions in Bangladesh.
Mr. Jain arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport today on an Air India flight, leading a four-member delegation that includes Ashwin Mukund Kotnis, Rahul Negi and Shaibal Ray Chowdhury. Government and diplomatic sources said the delegation is visiting at the invitation of relevant Bangladeshi authorities. Neither Dhaka nor New Delhi has officially disclosed details of the visit. The delegation is expected to stay at a Dhaka hotel.
Mr. Jain reportedly visited China before travelling to Bangladesh. His visit also comes as Sheikh Hasina and individuals accused in the Hadi murder case are in India.
RAW has long faced allegations in Bangladesh of involvement in the Pilkhana BDR and Shapla Chattar massacres and of supporting security agencies accused of enforced disappearances and operating Aynaghar detention facilities.
Former Brigadier General Mostafa Kamal described the visit as highly significant and urged Bangladeshi intelligence agencies to closely monitor Mr. Jain’s movements and meetings.
