Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after tendering her resignation amidst mounting protests in her country. These protests, initially focused on a quota system for government jobs, have evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations. Following her arrival, a Bangladesh Air Force C-130J transport aircraft carrying 7 military personnel landed at a Bangladeshi air base after flying over from India. The aircraft was monitored throughout its flight by Indian security agencies, according to Defence sources.
While Sheikh Hasina is in India, it remains unclear whether she will continue to stay in Delhi or move to another location. Meanwhile, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held an all-party meeting in Parliament to discuss the situation in Bangladesh. Jaishankar briefed the leaders about the ongoing developments, including Sheikh Hasina’s arrival in India and India’s commitment to providing her with support. He also highlighted India’s close communication with the Bangladesh Army and the focus on protecting Indian nationals in Bangladesh, with approximately 8,000 out of 20,000 already returning to India.
Jaishankar emphasized that India is committed to providing a safe space for Sheikh Hasina and giving her time to decide her next course of action. During the meeting, concerns were raised about the future of India’s foreign policy in light of the events in Bangladesh, particularly regarding the role of foreign forces and the safety of minorities.
In Bangladesh, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has proposed the formation of an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus to address the ongoing challenges. The political situation in Bangladesh remains fluid, with the future direction of the country uncertain.
