Image Credits : Court House News
India has denounced a recent CNN report that it claims misrepresented the country’s role in the ongoing flood crisis in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) called the report “misleading” and “factually incorrect,” warning that such coverage could strain the otherwise strong bilateral relations between India and Bangladesh.
The CNN report suggested that India’s management of cross-border rivers was a contributing factor to the severe flooding in Bangladesh, which has caused widespread displacement and damage. It also implied that Bangladesh’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, had left for India amid the crisis, further complicating the situation.
In response, the Indian government firmly rejected these claims, clarifying that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains in Bangladesh, actively leading her country’s flood relief efforts. The MEA emphasized that Hasina’s government is fully engaged in managing the disaster, working closely with international agencies and neighbouring countries, including India.
India also defended its flood management practices, particularly concerning cross-border rivers like the Teesta and Gumti. Indian officials reiterated that the country follows established protocols and international agreements to minimize flood risks in both India and Bangladesh. They highlighted that India’s cooperation with Bangladesh on water resource management has always been aimed at mutual benefit and reducing flood impacts.
The MEA criticized CNN for not consulting official sources or verifying facts before publishing the report. The ministry expressed concern that such inaccurate reporting could create unnecessary tensions between India and Bangladesh, two nations with historically strong ties and cooperative efforts in various sectors, including disaster management.
India called on CNN and other international media to exercise greater caution and responsibility when reporting on sensitive issues that could affect diplomatic relations and public opinion. The Indian government reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Bangladesh during the flood crisis, offering assistance and expertise to help mitigate the impact and aid recovery efforts.