Bangladesh urges India to stop Hasina’s political activities

Ahead of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s reported virtual programme on August 5, Bangladesh on Monday urged India to ensure that its territory is not used for political activities or statements that could undermine stability in Bangladesh.

The message was conveyed by Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir during a meeting with newly appointed Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon, according to Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Kobir said Dhaka expected New Delhi’s cooperation in ensuring that “any person, including fugitive Sheikh Hasina,” is not allowed to use Indian territory to make political statements or undertake activities aimed at creating instability in Bangladesh. He added that such actions could adversely affect the positive trajectory of bilateral ties. Responding to the concerns, the Indian High Commissioner assured that the matter would receive due consideration and that necessary inquiries would be made. The issue gained prominence amid reports in Indian media that Hasina is scheduled to make her first public appearance from India since leaving Bangladesh two years ago following a massive student-led protest.

According to multiple reports, she is expected to address a virtual event organised by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) in New Delhi on August 5.

The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry said Hasina’s proposed programme also figured in the discussions between the two sides. Both countries underscored the importance of maintaining regular dialogue and constructive engagement, expressing confidence that outstanding issues could be addressed through mutual trust and sustained discussions. The meeting also reviewed various aspects of Bangladesh-India bilateral relations and other issues of shared interest. Both sides reiterated their commitment to strengthening ties based on mutual respect, trust and common interests. In a separate statement, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka said the discussions focused on enhancing people-centric cooperation between the two neighbours on the basis of mutual interest and mutual benefit.

The High Commissioner reaffirmed India’s commitment to working constructively with the Government of Bangladesh to advance the developmental aspirations of the people of both countries.