Modi's Bangladesh claim sparks doubt after US silence

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi claimed that Bangladesh was among the topics discussed during his phone conversation with US President Joe Biden last Monday (August 26), in addition to Ukraine.

However, the official statement from the White House did not mention Bangladesh, raising questions about Modi's assertion. 

Following the call, Modi posted on his verified X handle, stating that he and Biden had an in-depth exchange on various regional and international issues, including the situation in Ukraine. 

Modi also claimed they discussed the situation in Bangladesh, emphasising the need for a swift return to normalcy and the protection of minorities, particularly Hindus.

India's Ministry of External Affairs echoed Modi's claims, stating that both leaders expressed "deep concern" over the situation in Bangladesh.

However, the official White House statement on the Biden-Modi conversation made no reference to Bangladesh. 

Instead, it focused on discussions about Modi's recent visits to Poland and Ukraine, as well as the upcoming United Nations General Assembly meeting in September. 

The statement also mentioned both leaders' commitment to a peaceful resolution of the Ukraine conflict and their continued collaboration through regional groups like the Quad to promote peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.

The absence of any mention of Bangladesh in the US statement has led to speculation about the accuracy of India's claims, prompting questions about whether Modi's assertion regarding Bangladesh's inclusion in the conversation was truthful.