Hasina’s political activities in India could negatively affect Bangladesh

Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s open political activities in India could negatively affect Bangladesh-India relations, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said.

She made the remarks at a briefing held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday afternoon.

“Open political activities by Sheikh Hasina in India could have a negative impact on Bangladesh-India relations. Dhaka is monitoring the Indian government’s position on this issue,” She said.

Earlier, the Indian government said that Sheikh Hasina had not been allowed to carry out any political activities using Indian territory. She has been staying in India since August 5, 2024, following the fall of her government amid a student-led mass uprising in Bangladesh.

Political debate and criticism intensified after Sheikh Hasina recently announced that she would return to Bangladesh in December. Following the announcement, the Indian government clarified its position regarding her political activities.

A committee of the Indian Parliament said that providing shelter to individuals facing extreme crises or threats to their lives is part of India’s humanitarian tradition and civilizational values. On that basis, Sheikh Hasina was allowed to stay in India, it said.

However, the committee added that she had not been given permission to use any political platform or Indian territory to conduct political activities.