NI Bureau
New Delhi: During an all-party meeting regarding the situation in Bangladesh following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amidst violent protests, Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi posed three critical questions to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
Firstly, Mr. Gandhi inquired about the government’s short-term and long-term strategies for handling the diplomatic repercussions of the power shift in Dhaka. In response, Minister Jaishankar indicated that the situation is evolving, and the government is closely analyzing developments to fine-tune its approach.
Secondly, Mr. Gandhi questioned the potential involvement of foreign powers, specifically Pakistan, in the recent events in Dhaka. The government is investigating this angle, noting that a Pakistani diplomat had been frequently changing his social media display picture to reflect the situation in Bangladesh, which is being probed for deeper implications.
Thirdly, Mr. Gandhi asked if New Delhi had anticipated the dramatic turn of events in Bangladesh. Minister Jaishankar responded that India is actively monitoring the situation.
The Congress party and other opposition parties have expressed their full support to the Narendra Modi government in managing this regional crisis.
Following the meeting, Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar posted on X, appreciating the unanimous support of opposition: “Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended.”
The meeting, also attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah, provided MPs from all parties with the background of the crisis in Bangladesh, including how Ms. Hasina escaped to India as her residence was stormed by protesters.
Ms. Hasina is currently in India and is likely to seek political asylum in the UK. The government conveyed that it plans to respond thoughtfully to Ms. Hasina, an old ally of New Delhi, giving her time to decide her next steps.
Additionally, the government informed the meeting that it is in contact with the Bangladesh Army, which has announced the formation of an interim government. The government assured the opposition that it is closely monitoring developments and will take appropriate actions at the right time.
There are approximately 20,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh, with around 8,000 having returned. The government is in communication with them, and the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh remains operational. Government Of India is also tracking reports of attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.
