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India’s foreign ministry stated on Thursday that it is up to Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to decide her next steps, adding that the Indian government has no further updates on her situation. This statement comes in the wake of Hasina’s dramatic departure from Bangladesh following intense protests demanding her resignation.
Sheikh Hasina, who resigned on Monday amidst escalating violence and political unrest, fled to India and has been residing at an air base near New Delhi. Her departure followed months of unrest, which saw widespread protests and violent clashes as opposition groups demanded her resignation. The political turmoil in Bangladesh has drawn international attention, with various countries and organizations closely monitoring the developments.
“It is not appropriate to talk about her plans,” said Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s foreign ministry, emphasizing that the former prime minister’s future decisions are her own. Jaiswal’s comments reflect India’s position of neutrality regarding Hasina’s next steps and underscore the sensitivity surrounding her situation.
Earlier in the day, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar discussed the situation with Britain’s Foreign Secretary, focusing on developments in Bangladesh and broader West Asia. Jaishankar’s post on X highlighted ongoing international diplomatic engagements as the situation in Bangladesh continues to evolve.
The political crisis in Bangladesh began to intensify when violent protests erupted over allegations of election irregularities and governance issues under Hasina’s administration. The situation quickly deteriorated, leading to Hasina’s resignation and subsequent departure to India.