Tensions between India and Bangladesh are rising as former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in exile in India, will speak at three events this month. She will virtually address leaders and supporters of her party, the Awami League, abroad.
Intelligence sources in Bangladesh say her speech on January 19, aimed at Awami League supporters in Bangladesh, is particularly important. Party members plan to livestream the event on social media in Bangladesh.
A source from India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) explained that allowing Hasina to speak to her party is a diplomatic move. "Awami League is not banned in Bangladesh. The request to extradite Hasina is questionable since there is no elected government there, and no legal reason to stop her from addressing her party," said the MEA official.
Hasina’s first address will be on January 10 to mark the return of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman from Pakistan’s prison in 1972. The second speech will be on January 11 to Awami League supporters in Italy.
However, the January 19 event, where Hasina will speak to her supporters in Bangladesh, has generated the most excitement.
Also Read: Bangladesh revokes passports of Hasina, 96 others
After stepping down in August and seeking refuge in India, Hasina spoke publicly for the first time on December 5 at a New York event marking the 1971 victory in Bangladesh’s liberation war.
Allowing Hasina to speak from India is considered a strategic move by the Indian government. "Hasina’s tenure was seen as friendly to India. India would want the Awami League to stay strong for better bilateral ties," an MEA official said.
In history, political figures like Fidel Castro and Vladimir Lenin have also addressed their supporters from foreign countries.
Also Read: India extends visa for Hasina, questions Dhaka’s extradition bid
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