US outreach to Jamaat in Bangladesh may strain India ties

New Delhi: The US outreach to pro-Pakistan radical group Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) providing the party guidance to navigate politically-turbulent Bangladesh could emerge as a fresh irritant in New Delhi-Washington ties. Relations between the two countries are currently facing tense moments amid protracted talks for a bilateral trade deal and the Trump administration's increased engagement with Pakistan.

The US efforts to woo the radical Jamaat-e-Islami party and guide the once-outlawed group ahead of elections in the South Asian country have raised eyebrows in diplomatic circles and among Bangladesh experts.

Historically, Jamaat-e-Islami has acted against New Delhi's security interests, encouraging extremist groups, radicals, and insurgents in Northeast India.