Dhaka (Capital of Bangladesh): Bangladesh’s interim government is determined to bring former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina back to face justice, according to Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain. In a statement on Sunday, Hossain emphasized that the onus is on India to decide “whether to hand her over or not.”
“If our legal system wants, we will definitely try to bring her back. There is an agreement (with India) and legal processes. It is better not to speculate,” Hossain told reporters. When asked if the interim government was aware of Hasina’s location in India, he responded, “It is better to ask India about it.”
Sheikh Hasina’s diplomatic passport, along with those of her family members, has been revoked, which raises questions about her continued stay in India. Her abrupt arrival in India followed a student-led uprising in Bangladesh, leading to her departure from the country on August 5th. Initially expected to stay briefly, Hasina’s attempts to seek asylum in the UK, US, and UAE have reportedly been unsuccessful.
Hasina’s presence in India poses diplomatic challenges for New Delhi, particularly as it seeks to establish a strong relationship with the new interim government in Dhaka. Bangladesh is a crucial strategic partner for India, especially regarding border security in the northeastern states. The two nations share a 4,096km (2,545 miles) porous border, which has historically been a transit route for armed insurgent groups.
Under Hasina’s leadership, the Awami League party worked to suppress these insurgent groups and resolved several border disputes with India. Additionally, economic ties between the two countries flourished, with significant improvements in trade, connectivity, and infrastructure development. India provided over $7 billion in credit lines to Bangladesh since 2010 for various projects.
However, Hasina’s abrupt departure and flight to India, coupled with the asylum granted by India, have presented an unforeseen diplomatic challenge. The diplomatic strain may be mitigated only if India successfully maintains and builds upon the achievements made between the two nations, while also addressing the discontent in Bangladesh over India’s prolonged support for Hasina and her party. Failing this, the situation could further deteriorate
As the situation unfolds, the issue of Sheikh Hasina’s status will likely become a focal point of international discussions between India and Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s interim government appears resolute in its efforts to bring Hasina back, setting the stage for potential diplomatic tensions.
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