Bangladesh has sought clarification from India regarding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s proposed press conference in New Delhi, expressing concern that her political activities from Indian territory could impact bilateral relations. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said Dhaka had formally approached New Delhi over the planned event, scheduled for Wednesday, which coincides with the second anniversary of the ouster of Hasina’s government. She emphasised that Bangladesh does not want the issue to adversely affect ties between the two neighbouring countries.
The comments mark Bangladesh’s first official response to Hasina’s scheduled virtual address at an August 5 programme organised by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia in New Delhi. The event commemorates two years since the student-led movement that led to the fall of her administration.
Among those expected to participate in the programme are Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, former education minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel, and Bangladesh Human Rights Watch general secretary Mahammad Ali Siddique.
Islam noted that Dhaka has repeatedly raised concerns with India regarding Hasina and other leaders of the Awami League making political statements while residing in India. She maintained that such activities by individuals who have left Bangladesh and are accused of attempting to create instability could have implications for bilateral ties. According to her, Bangladesh has consistently conveyed that fugitives or convicted persons should not be allowed to use foreign soil for political activities aimed at undermining stability in the country.
Echoing similar concerns, foreign affairs adviser to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Humaiun Kabir, said Hasina’s planned address from India could affect the positive trajectory of Bangladesh-India relations. Kabir raised the issue during a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi in Dhaka on Monday, where both sides reviewed various aspects of bilateral cooperation and discussed issues of mutual interest.
In a post on X, the Indian High Commission stated that the discussions focused on strengthening people-centric cooperation based on mutual benefit and shared interests. It added that India remains committed to working constructively with Bangladesh to advance the developmental aspirations of both nations.
Meanwhile, Bangladesh Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said security and law enforcement agencies have been placed on high alert ahead of August 5 to maintain public order and ensure safety across the country.
Hasina’s government was removed from power on August 5, 2024, following violent student-led protests, after which she left for India. The interim administration that succeeded her later banned the Awami League through an executive order under anti-terror legislation.
In November 2025, Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal after being convicted of crimes against humanity linked to the crackdown on the 2024 protests. Bangladesh has since sought her extradition, while India has acknowledged the request and said it remains under legal consideration.
By Pranab Mondal
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