Bangladesh Seeks India's Clarification on Hasina's Activities

Bangladesh has sought clarification from India over its position on deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina's planned press conference in New Delhi, coinciding with the second anniversary of her government's ouster.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam stated that Hasina's public political activities from Indian territory could have a negative impact on relations between the two countries.

Hasina's government was toppled on August 5, 2024, after violent student-led street protests in Bangladesh, following which she fled to India. She has been living in India since then.

According to some media reports, Hasina is expected to join a private event hosted by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia virtually on August 5 in New Delhi.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir said Hasina's planned public address from Indian soil could undermine the positive momentum in bilateral relations.

Bangladesh wants India to make its position clear on the matter, with Shama stating that Dhaka does not want the issue to undermine bilateral relations.

Kobir also said Bangladesh expected India to debar Hasina or any individual related to her disbanded party and affiliated organisations from using Indian territory to deliver political statements or carry out activities aimed at creating instability inside Bangladesh.

The Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi paid a courtesy call on Kobir, where bilateral discussions focused on increasing people-centric cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

The High Commissioner reiterated India’s intent to work positively with the Government of Bangladesh to advance the developmental aspirations of the peoples of India and Bangladesh.

Both sides expressed optimism about further strengthening and advancing the bilateral relationship based on mutual respect, trust, and shared interests.

The issue of Hasina's planned public appearance on August 5 was also discussed during the meeting, with Kobir informing the High Commissioner that Bangladesh expected India to debar Hasina from using Indian territory to deliver political statements.

The development highlights the complexities of the relationship between India and Bangladesh, with Dhaka seeking to balance its ties with New Delhi while also addressing its internal political concerns.

The outcome of this situation will be crucial in determining the future of India-Bangladesh relations, with both countries seeking to strengthen their cooperation in various areas while navigating sensitive political issues.