Former Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has officially stepped down as the Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government. After leading the country for 18 months following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Yunus handed over power to a newly elected government. However, his exit has made major headlines in India. In his farewell speech, Yunus made comments about India’s northeastern states that have sparked fresh diplomatic tensions. Here is a complete breakdown of what happened, the controversy surrounding his speech, and what it means for India-Bangladesh relations.
What Happened: The Exit of Muhammad Yunus
On February 16, 2026, Muhammad Yunus delivered his final televised address to the people of Bangladesh. This marked the end of his temporary rule, which began in August 2024 after a massive student-led uprising. During his speech, the 85-year-old leader praised the recent national elections and congratulated the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on its massive victory. While his resignation was expected, the words he chose for his final speech quickly became a major talking point in New Delhi.
The ‘Seven Sisters’ Controversy Explained
The biggest point of friction in Yunus’s speech was his reference to India’s northeastern region. While talking about a new sub-regional economic plan, Yunus stated that Bangladesh’s open sea is a gateway to the global economy. He then mentioned that this region, along with Nepal, Bhutan, and the “Seven Sisters,” has great economic potential.
The problem is that he grouped the “Seven Sisters”—which are strictly Indian states—with independent countries like Nepal and Bhutan, completely omitting the name “India.” Strategic experts in New Delhi view this as a deliberate move to treat India’s sensitive northeastern region as a separate entity. Many see this as an unnecessary provocation and a dangerous geopolitical message aimed at blurring established political boundaries.
A Dig at India: “No Longer Submissive”
Beyond the Northeast comments, Yunus proudly declared that Bangladesh has reclaimed its sovereignty and dignity. He stated that the country is no longer “submissive” or dependent on the advice of other nations. Foreign policy experts widely interpret this as a direct hit at India.
During Sheikh Hasina’s rule, Dhaka and New Delhi shared very close ties. However, the Yunus administration believed that the previous government was too heavily influenced by India. By claiming an independent and “non-submissive” foreign policy, Yunus used his final moments in power to send a bold anti-India signal while simultaneously hinting at stronger regional ties with China.
Background: A Rocky 18 Months for India and Bangladesh
The relationship between India and Bangladesh hit its lowest point during Yunus’s 18-month tenure. After Sheikh Hasina fled to India in 2024 to escape the protests, anti-India sentiments grew rapidly in Bangladesh. New Delhi repeatedly raised serious concerns about the safety of minorities, especially the Hindu community, who faced widespread attacks during the political chaos. Economic trade and border connectivity projects also slowed down significantly as diplomatic trust faded.
What Happens Next in Bangladesh?
With Muhammad Yunus returning to his social business work, Bangladesh is entering a new political chapter. Tarique Rahman, the leader of the BNP, took oath as the new Prime Minister on February 17, 2026, after his party won 209 out of 297 seats in the general elections.
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For India, all eyes are now on the new BNP government. New Delhi will closely watch whether Prime Minister Tarique Rahman decides to repair the damaged relationship with India or continues the anti-India posturing seen during the interim government’s rule. The safety of minorities and the security of India’s eastern borders will remain top priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why did Muhammad Yunus resign?
Muhammad Yunus was only the head of a temporary interim government. He resigned to hand over power to a newly elected democratic government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) after the February 2026 elections.
What did Yunus say about the Seven Sisters?
In his farewell speech, Yunus grouped India’s northeastern “Seven Sisters” states with independent nations like Nepal and Bhutan to discuss economic trade. He purposely did not mention India, which angered Indian political experts and officials.
Who is the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh?
Tarique Rahman, the chief of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), is the new Prime Minister of Bangladesh. He took his oath of office on February 17, 2026.
How were India-Bangladesh relations under Muhammad Yunus?
The relations were highly strained. India constantly raised concerns regarding the safety of Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh, while the Yunus government leaned closer to China and allowed anti-India sentiments to grow unchecked.
Will Muhammad Yunus join politics now?
According to his official aides, the Nobel laureate has zero interest in politics. He plans to return to his social business initiatives and focus on poverty reduction, green energy, and youth employment.