Image Credit: Hindustan Times
External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar provided a detailed account to the Rajya Sabha on the escalating situation in Bangladesh, highlighting India’s proactive measures and ongoing communication with authorities in Dhaka.
Addressing the upper house, Dr. Jaishankar noted that India is in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through its diplomatic missions. “There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh, of which about 9,000 are students. The bulk of these students returned in July,” he stated. He assured that the safety and well-being of Indian nationals remain a top priority for the government.
Dr. Jaishankar emphasized India’s vigilance regarding the status of minorities in Bangladesh, noting that various groups and organizations are reportedly taking initiatives to ensure their protection. “Naturally, we will remain deeply concerned till law and order is restored,” he said. He also mentioned that India’s border guarding forces have been instructed to maintain exceptional alertness given the complex situation.
In a significant development, Dr. Jaishankar revealed that on August 5, demonstrators in Dhaka defied a curfew, converging in large numbers. Following a crucial meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina decided to resign. “At very short notice, she requested approval to come to India,” Dr. Jaishankar reported. The Indian government promptly responded, granting flight clearance, and Prime Minister Hasina arrived in Delhi yesterday evening.
In conclusion, Dr. Jaishankar reaffirmed that India has been in continuous contact with Bangladeshi authorities over the past 24 hours to monitor the unfolding events and ensure the safety of all involved. This statement underscores India’s commitment to regional stability and the welfare of its citizens abroad.