Jaishankar Flags 'Greater Bangladesh' Map Linked to Islamist Group Backed by Turkish NGO

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said India is monitoring a controversial map shown in Dhaka suggesting a ‘Greater Bangladesh’ including Indian territory. The group behind it, ‘Saltanat-e-Bangla’, is reportedly linked to a Turkish NGO. Bangladesh officials denied the group’s existence, calling the map part of a historical cultural exhibit.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar informed the Rajya Sabha that the Indian government has taken note of an Islamist group in Dhaka, reportedly backed by a Turkish NGO, which circulated a controversial map depicting a ‘Greater Bangladesh’ that includes Indian territory. The group, identified as ‘Saltanat-e-Bangla’, is allegedly supported by the ‘Turkish Youth Federation’.

Responding to a starred question by Congress MP Randeep Singh Surjewala, Jaishankar clarified that the government is closely monitoring the situation due to its potential implications for national security. He confirmed that the map was displayed at Dhaka University and emphasised that the government remains committed to taking all necessary measures to safeguard Indian interests.

The map’s appearance has sparked concerns, especially with increasing reports of Turkish and Pakistani involvement in Bangladesh’s socio-political landscape. While the Ministry of External Affairs continues to assess the matter, the Bangladeshi fact-checking platform ‘BanglaFact’ refuted the claim that ‘Saltanat-e-Bangla’ exists or operates within Bangladesh. The platform added that the map was part of a historical exhibition referencing the Bengal Sultanate and had no political intent.

The Dhaka University organisers, according to the MEA, denied any foreign links, asserting that the map was part of a cultural display for Pohela Boisakh, held on April 14, 2025. However, the incident has prompted scrutiny amid larger geopolitical shifts in the region.

Also Read: All Accused Acquitted in 2008 Malegaon Blast Case After 17 Years; Court Cites Lack of Evidence

Congress leader Surjewala pressed the government for clarification on whether the issue had been taken up diplomatically with Bangladesh and if the security ramifications of foreign influence in Bangladesh were fully evaluated. The government's official response suggests heightened vigilance, though it stopped short of detailing any bilateral diplomatic steps taken thus far.