Bangladesh Warns India Over Sheikh Hasina's Planned Virtual Address

The government of Bangladesh has warned India that planned political activities by exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from Indian soil could harm bilateral relations. Humayun Kabir, the foreign affairs adviser to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, conveyed this message to Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi during a meeting in Dhaka on Monday. The warning follows the announcement of a virtual media event titled 'Sheikh Hasina's Homecoming,' scheduled for August 5 at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia in New Delhi. The date marks two years since Hasina's government was toppled following student led protests in 2024.

Dhaka has requested that New Delhi ensure no individuals, including Hasina, use Indian territory to make political statements or conduct activities aimed at creating instability within Bangladesh. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam stated that Bangladesh wants India to make its position clear on the matter to avoid undermining bilateral ties. The planned event is expected to feature Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and other Awami League functionaries. Organizers indicate that Hasina may use the platform to outline her vision for Bangladesh and her plans to return to the country.

In response, High Commissioner Trivedi stated that the matter would be duly considered and that necessary inquiries would be made. The Indian High Commission later released a statement emphasizing India's intent to work positively with the Bangladesh government to advance developmental aspirations and people centric cooperation.

Hasina has lived in India since August 2024. While she has expressed a desire to return to Bangladesh by the end of the year, the current government has sought her extradition. Bangladeshi officials have indicated that she would likely be arrested immediately upon her return, with some reports noting she has been sentenced to death for ordering a crackdown on protesters.