Bangladesh Condemns India After Ousted PM Sheikh Hasina's Media Appearance

Bangladesh has strongly condemned India for allowing ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to address journalists in New Delhi, an event that has strained bilateral relations. During the virtual interaction, which marked the second anniversary of her removal from power, Hasina vowed to return to Bangladesh in December despite facing a death sentence in absentia for crimes against humanity. She dismissed the charges as politically motivated and called for the lifting of the ban on her party, the Awami League.

Bangladesh's foreign ministry described the event as an affront to national sovereignty and renewed demands for Hasina's extradition. Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, a senior leader of the BNP, alleged that Indian policymakers deliberately arranged the conference to insult the martyrs of the July uprising. In response, India distanced itself from the event, stating it had no role in organizing the conference and does not endorse the political views expressed.

Former Bangladesh cricket captain Shakib Al Hasan also participated in the event. Following his appearance, unidentified attackers smashed windows and hurled petrol bombs at his ancestral home in Magura town. Police reported that the property was unoccupied at the time and no injuries occurred. Shakib, a former Awami League lawmaker, has remained outside the country since the 2024 uprising and faces multiple investigations including allegations of fraud and money laundering.

Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, praised the Indian government for providing her with security and respect accorded to a head of state. Hasina stated that she is prepared to face jail or death upon her return to her people.