Dhaka: Bangladesh has urged India to clarify its position over reports that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to deliver a virtual address from New Delhi on August 5, warning that political activities by the ousted leader from Indian territory could have an adverse impact on bilateral ties.
Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed Islam, said Dhaka expects India to explain its stance on the reported event, which is scheduled to coincide with the second anniversary of the fall of Hasina’s government. She stressed that Bangladesh wants relations with India to improve and hopes both countries will continue strengthening cooperation.
According to reports, Hasina is expected to join the virtual programme alongside several senior Awami League leaders and supporters. Bangladesh has reiterated its long standing position that individuals facing legal proceedings or living outside the country should not be allowed to use foreign territory for political activities that could create instability.
The issue was also raised during a meeting between India’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, and Bangladesh Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humayun Kabir in Dhaka. Bangladesh conveyed its expectation that Indian territory should not be used for political activities by individuals linked to banned organisations or those facing legal action in Bangladesh.
The Indian High Commission said the discussions focused on enhancing people centric cooperation and reaffirmed India’s commitment to working constructively with Bangladesh to advance mutual development goals. Both sides also emphasised continued dialogue and engagement to resolve outstanding issues through trust and cooperation.
The reported virtual address would mark Sheikh Hasina’s first public appearance since she fled Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, following weeks of student led protests that brought an end to her 15 year tenure in office. She has since been living in India under security protection.
Bangladesh’s interim government has banned the Awami League under anti terror legislation and continues to pursue Hasina’s extradition from India. India has confirmed receiving the extradition request and has stated that the matter remains under legal consideration.
Ahead of August 5, Bangladesh has placed security and law enforcement agencies on high alert to maintain peace and prevent any untoward incidents across the country.
