Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus has adopted what regional observers are calling a “megaphone diplomacy” approach, issuing public statements that are beginning to strain relations with India during a politically delicate period for both countries.

The shift became evident when Yunus openly urged India to prevent former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina — who is currently in Delhi — from making political comments about Bangladesh’s internal affairs. The unusually direct appeal has reportedly caused discomfort in New Delhi, where officials are closely watching developments in Dhaka.

Under Hasina’s previous government, India and Bangladesh enjoyed one of their warmest periods of bilateral ties in decades, marked by cooperation on security, cross-border transport, trade and counter-terrorism. The new interim administration, however, appears to be signalling a more assertive stance aimed at distinguishing itself from the previous leadership. Indian officials, speaking informally, have described the new tone from Dhaka as unexpectedly sharp and overly public. Instead of relying on traditional diplomatic channels, they say the interim government is opting for public broadcasts and open criticism — behaviour that has been characterised as “megaphone diplomacy.”

For India, the emerging friction comes at a time when it is trying to maintain stability in its neighbourhood amid growing geopolitical competition. Bangladesh remains a key partner for New Delhi, particularly for regional connectivity and security cooperation. Any deterioration in relations may affect ongoing infrastructure projects, border management efforts and joint initiatives in the Bay of Bengal region. For Bangladesh, the transition period following widespread protests and political upheaval has created both uncertainty and an opportunity for the new leadership to shape its identity. Analysts believe Yunus’s publicly assertive tone may be aimed at bolstering domestic support by projecting independence and strength in foreign policy.

It remains unclear whether the confrontational rhetoric will lead to concrete shifts in policy, or whether it is mainly a symbolic stance for internal political messaging. However, diplomats warn that if not carefully managed, the change in tone could complicate a historically significant partnership that has long benefited both countries. As the situation evolves, both Dhaka and New Delhi will have to navigate the shifting dynamics carefully to prevent rising tensions from transforming into long-term diplomatic challenges.