This heightened security came after a faction of student protestors called for renewed demonstrations, despite a recent withdrawal of protests by their coordinators.

In West Bengal where the Ganges flows into Bangladesh is instrumental in ensuring that water diverts into the Hooghly River. It is critical for the functioning of the Kolkata Port and meets the water needs of urban settlements along the Hooghly-Bhagirathi river, including Kolkata.

This visit marks the first incoming bilateral state visit since the formation of the new Indian government following the 18th Lok Sabha elections, as noted by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Hasina, following a phone conversation with Modi on Wednesday, accepted his invitation to attend the ceremony, making her one of the early confirmations among foreign dignitaries.