Bangladesh has formally expressed deep concern and surprise regarding former prime minister Sheikh Hasina's recent political address delivered from Indian soil. The country's Foreign Ministry issued a strong statement on Sunday, highlighting that allowing Hasina to speak at a public gathering in New Delhi could significantly impact Bangladesh's political stability as it approaches crucial general elections.
Official Statement from Dhaka
In a detailed statement released in Dhaka and reported by the state-run BSS news agency, the ministry described itself as "surprised" and "shocked" by the development. The statement emphasized that Hasina was permitted to make direct political comments against Bangladesh's current interim government during the event. This action, according to Dhaka, clearly endangers the nation's democratic transition, peace, and overall security.
Background of Hasina's Situation
Sheikh Hasina, aged 78, has been residing in India since August 2024. She fled Dhaka following the collapse of her government, which occurred in the wake of massive student-led protests and agitation across Bangladesh. The Foreign Ministry's statement also pointedly referenced pending extradition requests for Hasina under the existing bilateral extradition agreement between India and Bangladesh.
Grievances Over Extradition and Non-Interference
Bangladesh remains "aggrieved" that despite repeated official requests, the matter of handing over the former prime minister has seen no progress. Meanwhile, she has been allowed to issue political statements from Indian territory. The statement asserted that such actions run contrary to established norms of non-interference and the principles of good neighbourly relations that should govern ties between the two nations.
Furthermore, the ministry underlined that the incitements made by the Awami League leadership, as demonstrated in Hasina's address, validate the interim government's decision to ban the party's political activities within Bangladesh.
Content of Hasina's Address
In her first public address to a gathering in India since her departure from Dhaka, Sheikh Hasina delivered a strong message via a pre-recorded audio clip played at an event in New Delhi. The Awami League leader explicitly called on the people of Bangladesh to overthrow the current regime led by Muhammad Yunus.
She argued that free and fair elections would be impossible if the Yunus-led interim government remains in power. Hasina also urged Bangladesh to request the United Nations to conduct a "truly impartial investigation" into the events of the past year. Additionally, she called for the people to unite in order to "restore" the constitution and ensure the protection of religious minorities in the country.
Timing and Electoral Context
Hasina's message was broadcast just one day after official campaigning began for Bangladesh's parliamentary elections, scheduled for February 12. It is important to note that the Awami League party, which she leads, has been legally barred from contesting these upcoming polls.
Strain in Bilateral Relations
The diplomatic relationship between India and Bangladesh has been under considerable strain since the interim government, headed by Muhammad Yunus, assumed power following the collapse of Hasina's administration in August 2024. India has previously and consistently expressed its concerns regarding attacks on minority communities, particularly Hindus, within Bangladesh.
This latest incident involving a political address by the deposed leader from Indian territory adds a new layer of complexity to the already delicate bilateral dynamics between the two neighbouring countries.
