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Will Sheikh Hasina Be Forced To Leave India After Passport Revocation?

August 24, 2024, 4:52 pm

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been in India for nearly three weeks following her ouster due to a student-led uprising. While speculation surrounds her next steps, the situation has become more precarious as Bangladesh’s interim government revoked her diplomatic passport, raising concerns about her continued stay in India.

Diplomatic Passport Revoked

The security services division of Bangladesh’s home affairs ministry announced the immediate revocation of diplomatic passports for Sheikh Hasina, her advisors, former cabinet members, and all members of the recently dissolved 12th Jatiya Sangsad (Parliament), along with their spouses. This move follows the dissolution of Parliament by President Mohammed Shahabuddin in August, shortly after Hasina, 76, was forced to resign and leave the country.

The decision also affects diplomatic officials whose tenures have ended, with ordinary passports only being issued after clearance from at least two investigative agencies.

Risk of Extradition Looms

According to sources, Hasina holds no other passport besides her now-revoked diplomatic one, as reported by The Daily Star newspaper. Under Indian visa policy, Bangladeshi citizens with diplomatic or official passports can enter India without a visa and stay for up to 45 days. With Hasina already in India for 20 days, her legal stay is nearing its limit.

The cancellation of her diplomatic passport and its associated visa privileges raises the possibility of extradition to Bangladesh, where she faces 51 cases, including 42 for murder. The 2013 extradition treaty between Bangladesh and India, amended in 2016, provides the legal framework for such action. Although the treaty allows refusal of extradition for political charges, it explicitly excludes crimes like murder from being considered political.

However, one of the grounds for refusal of extradition is if the charges are not “made in good faith, in the interest of justice,” as reported by the state-run BSS news agency. This could be a significant factor in determining Hasina’s fate.

Uncertain Future

With her diplomatic passport revoked and legal challenges looming, Sheikh Hasina’s future remains uncertain. As the clock ticks on her stay in India, the former prime minister may soon have to navigate the complexities of international law and diplomatic negotiations to determine her next move.

Bangladesh Supreme Court Judge Detained by Border Guard While Allegedly Fleeing to India

August 24, 2024, 3:54 am

A retired judge of Bangladesh’s Supreme Court, Shamsuddin Chowdhury Manik, was detained by the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) while allegedly attempting to flee the country near the northeastern frontier with India in Sylhet. The BGB reported late on Friday that Manik was intercepted at Sylhet’s Kanaighat border as he tried to cross into India. He was held at a BGB outpost until midnight.

This incident occurred on the same day as the arrest of Awami League leader ASM Firoz from his residence, reflecting the escalating political turmoil in Bangladesh following the collapse of Sheikh Hasina’s government. The situation in the country has been tense since August 5, when Hasina fled to India amid violent protests against the government’s quota system for jobs. The unrest has resulted in over 500 deaths since mid-July, prompting the Army to step in and restore order.

Following the government’s collapse, numerous leaders from Hasina’s administration have been arrested, many on charges of murder. Former law minister Anisul Huq and Salman F Rahman, the ex-premier’s adviser on private sector affairs, were among the first arrested as they attempted to leave Dhaka via boat.

The Bangladesh Army has reportedly provided shelter in cantonments to several hundred leaders from Hasina’s Awami League and other political figures, citing threats to their lives. Arrests have included former ministers, lawmakers, leaders of allied parties, and recently sacked military and civil officials. Notable figures arrested include former foreign minister Hassan Mahmud, former social welfare minister Dipu Moni, pro-left Workers Party chairman Rashed Khan Menon, and several high-ranking military officers.

The political instability has led to widespread chaos, with key members of Hasina’s regime and others facing arrest as the new interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, attempts to stabilize the nation.

From Political Turmoil to Cricket Tensions: Bangladesh Faces Pakistan Test in Uncertain Times

August 20, 2024, 6:10 am

The unrest in Bangladesh that led to the overthrow of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has severely impacted the country’s cricket preparations. The foreign coaches have been advised to stay indoors, adhering to safety directives from their embassies, while widespread protests have prevented the team from holding practice sessions.

The situation has also caused uncertainty within the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) following the departure of President Nazmul Hassan, who fled the country due to his ties with Hasina. Despite the turmoil, ace all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, a former member of the now-dissolved parliament for Hasina’s party, is allowed to participate in the Pakistan series by the interim government.

Due to the unrest, the Bangladesh team struggled to practice, with spin bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed noting, “Because of the situation, it was not possible to practice.” The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has offered some relief by inviting the team to arrive four days early to compensate for their lack of preparation.

A second-string Bangladesh team, including six national team players, had already been playing practice games in Islamabad since August 10. However, Bangladesh’s woes continued with in-form opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy ruled out of the first Test due to a groin strain, although senior batter Mushfiqur Rahim is expected to recover from a finger injury in time for the match.

On August 19, the PCB announced the release of fast-bowler Aamir Jamal from the Test squad, advising him to focus on fitness at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. Jamal is recovering from a back injury sustained during county cricket.

Aamir Jamal released from Test squad

Read more ➡️ https://t.co/uSrWIqmCmx #PAKvBAN

— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) August 19, 2024

Bangladesh will look to improve their record against Pakistan, having lost 12 of the 13 Tests played between the two teams, with just one match drawn. The two-match Test series, part of the World Test Championship’s third cycle, sees Pakistan currently sixth in the standings and Bangladesh eighth. The second Test, scheduled for August 30, will be held in Rawalpindi due to ongoing construction work at the Karachi stadium and will be played without spectators to ensure safety.

Pakistan, following a 3-0 defeat in Australia earlier this year, has appointed former Australian paceman Jason Gillespie as Test coach and Adelaide groundsman Damien Hough to enhance pitch conditions. Pakistan will enter the Test with an all-pace attack, having released their only spinner, Abrar Ahmed. Bangladesh, meanwhile, will rely on their spin department, with Shakib Al Hasan, Taijul Islam, and Mehidy Hasan Miraz all included in the squad.

Pakistan captain Shan Masood dismissed concerns about Bangladesh being under-prepared, stating, “You expect all international Test sides to come into a series well prepared and trying to play their best cricket.” He added, “Bangladesh is a side that has quality players in all departments and we highly respect the challenges they bring as a side to us.”

Pakistan squad: Shan Masood (captain), Saud Shakeel, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Khurram Shahzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Ali, Muhammad Hurraira, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, Agha Salman, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Shaheen Shah Afridi

Bangladesh squad: Najmul Hossain Shanto (captain), Zakir Hasan, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Mushfiqur Rahim, Shakib Al Hasan, Litton Das, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hasan, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Khaled Ahmed

Survey on Bangladesh Crisis

August 19, 2024, 12:51 am

Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently spoke with Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, while former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sheltered in India for over 10 days. This call is the second contact between India and Bangladesh since Hasina’s ousting on August 5. Modi invited Yunus to represent Bangladesh at the Global South Summit 2024 in New Delhi, which Yunus accepted. Modi reaffirmed India’s support for a “democratic, stable, peaceful, and progressive Bangladesh.” Yunus committed to ensuring the safety of Hindus and minorities in Bangladesh amid rising attacks, having previously called for peace from Dhaka’s Dhakeshwari Temple.

91% Surveyed Believe Bangladesh is Under Interim Government Extremists’ Control.

Here is the survey:

Q-1: Has Bangladesh become a puppet in the hands of the interim government extremists?

Q-2: What will be the impact of the talks between PM Modi and the interim government leader of Bangladesh, Mohammad Yunus, on the situation?

Q-3: Should the United Nations also intervene in the attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh and take action against the Yusuf government?

Q-4: What is your opinion on the demand by Islamist leader Mujibur Rehman to implement Sharia law in Bangladesh?

What next for Bangladesh?

August 13, 2024, 5:20 am

What next for Bangladesh, what next for India-Bangladesh relations, now that the leader India considered to be a “friend”, has been thrown out in a “military” coup, carried out under the approving eyes of the great democracies of the West, specifically the United States?

Nobel Laureate Dr Mohammed Yunus, a man favoured by Democrat big-shots such as Bill and Hillary Clinton—Yunus was a donor to the Clinton Foundation—apart from Barack Obama, has been issuing anodyne statements about the need to have calm restored in a country that has been overrun by Islamic jihadis who are going round attacking the minorities, specifically the Hindus. It seems his priority has been to get dropped the graft cases lodged against him by Sheikh Hasina. The law enforcement agencies are nowhere to be seen. There is a complete breakdown of law and order, which essentially means the unrest continues, even though Dhaka is getting back to normal, with students filling in for the job that is supposed to be done by the authorities. This signifies a complete abdication of duty on the part of the authorities. It’s just that after the initial shock of being attacked, the Hindu community has organised themselves and have started pouring out on the streets seeking safety, security and justice for themselves. Some Awami League members, who, along with the Hindus, bore the brunt of the attack, too have started emerging from where they had gone in hiding.

The talk in Dhaka is now about reforming institutions and carrying forward the work of building democracy. Even though the reality is that the government in Dhaka has been foisted on the people and is headed by a man who has been put there undemocratically. Just because Mohammed Yunus has the backing of the US, Bangladesh does not become a democracy. As for the popular uprising that ousted Hasina from power, with generous help from the military, it is actually the mobilisation of a radical mob. A mob rule cannot be the substitute of the people’s will, and in spite of all the talk about democracy, there is no certainty that an election will take place inside the stipulated 90 days or three months, as per the 13th Constitutional amendment. But then democracy in Bangladesh is of a special variety where caretaker governments have functioned in the past even without adhering to the Constitution. Given that the current protagonists are speaking of the “right time” to hold the elections, after institutions are reformed and strengthened, it is anybody’s guess when the “right time” will be. But then it is known that the next election will be tailored to reflect “people’s will” and the government will be a BNP-Jamaat one. So no surprises there. It only remains to be seen if the Awami League is allowed to participate in the election. If not, then everyone who is a part of the interim government, starting with Yunus himself, will be guilty of the same dictatorial tendencies that they had been accusing Hasina of. However, in this case, they may even get away with it, because the US is likely to turn a blind eye to their undemocratic man in Dhaka.

Amid this, it’s worthwhile to take note of the anti-India jingoism sweeping through Bangladesh, which is not going to help India-Bangladesh relations in any manner. Using threats of boycotting Indian goods, or threatening ties because Hasina has taken shelter in India, is not constructive, especially when what Bangladesh is today as a textile-driven economy, is largely because of the help from India, which has supplied it with both machinery and raw material. Power is another area where India has extended a major helping hand, from helping set up the 1,320 megawatt Maitree Super Thermal Power Project, to supplying 1,160 megawatt power from Tripura and West Bengal. But then that sector is mired in uncertainty, as Bangladesh has been facing economic downturn because of Covid and then the Russia-Ukraine war, because of which it has been finding it difficult to make payments to India. Lest we forget, Bangladesh economy is essentially a one-trick pony, with nothing much to show beyond its textile and apparel industry.

While India’s trade with Bangladesh is taking a hit in this climate of turmoil and fear, it can absorb the shock. It is Bangladesh’s economy that will likely tank if mobs keep ruling the streets and the hatred towards India gets aggravated, threatening the lives and livelihoods of Indian interests there. In such a situation, BNP’s statement that India needs to behave for mutual cooperation to continue between the two countries, in the context of Hasina taking shelter here, will not help Bangladesh. As it is BNP has always been a malign player when it comes to India. BNP leader Khaleda Zia and her son, Tariq Rahman acted as tools of Pakistan’s ISI to fuel insurgency in India’s Northeast, when Zia was Prime Minister. It is well known that the Jamaat-e-Islami is an ISI front and will try to make use of the porous India-Bangladesh border to infiltrate terrorists into this country. By saying “India Out” may earn some brownie points from the streets for Bangladesh’s new rulers, but if India really goes “out”, Bangladesh economy may be on the verge of collapse. Bangladesh’s rulers need to realise that jingoism, pogrom of minorities and needling the immediate neighbour, which is an economic and military powerhouse, are a sure-fire way to poverty, hunger and unrest. Thus, Bangladesh’s volatile streets may turn against their current crop of rulers sooner than later.

India Ups Maritime Patrolling On Bangladesh Border to Prevent Illegal Intrusions

August 12, 2024, 7:30 pm

Amid heightened tensions in Bangladesh following the ouster of former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, the Indian Coast Guard said that security has been beefed up along the international maritime boundary line to prevent any illegal intrusion in India.

Deputy Director General Anupam Rai of the Indian Coast Guard said on Monday that the security has been bolstered to address any potential threats.

“After the political unrest in Bangladesh, Indian Coast Guard has enhanced its patrolling and surveillance along the international maritime boundary line…To prevent any hostile act and illegal intrusion we have beefed up the security, positioned two to three ships…Sunderban Creek areas are being patrolled by our air cushion vessels and interceptor boats,” ICG Deputy DG Anupam Rai said.

He further detailed that the Sunderban Creek areas are being closely monitored with air cushion vessels and interceptor boats. The Indian Coast Guard’s coastal surveillance radars at Haldia, Paradeep, and Gopalpur are operating around the clock, scanning the close coasts of India for any signs of illegal activity.
“Till now no illegal activity has been seen but we have very specifically told our ships to board all fishing boats or any vessels that are close to the Indo-Bangladesh
International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) or in the creek areas, ” he added.

Meanwhile, the Border Security forces have also tightened security along the Indo-Bangladesh international border in response to the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh.
Deployment at border outposts has also been increased, and all surveillance equipment is being utilized to ensure effective monitoring.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has formed a committee, led by the Additional Director General (ADG) of the BSF Eastern Command, to monitor the situation at the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB).

In a letter dated August 9, Under Secretary to the Govt of India Smitha Viju said, “It has been decided to constitute a Committee consisting of the following members for the above-mentioned subject a. ADG, BSF, Eastern Command as the Chairman, b. IG, BSF Frontier HQ South Bengal, c. IG, BSF Frontier HQ Tripura, d. Member (Planning and Development), LPAI and e. Secretary, LPAI.”

Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with Sheikh Hasina, tendering her resignation from the position of Prime Minister on August 5 in the wake of mounting protests.

The protests erupted in early July due to demands for reforming the quota system that reserves civil service jobs for specific groups, including descendants of 1971 war veterans.

The unrest intensified after students opposed a new policy allocating government jobs to descendants of freedom fighters, leading to violence, including attacks on state television headquarters and police booths in Dhaka.

UK Protesters Demand Action Over Violence Against Bangladeshi Hindus

August 11, 2024, 9:57 am

A significant demonstration took place outside the Houses of Parliament in London on Saturday, as a large crowd gathered to express their outrage over alleged violence against minority Hindus and other groups in Bangladesh. This protest followed the recent resignation and departure of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Participants in the rally waved Bangladeshi flags and held up signs with messages such as “Protect Our Temples in Bangladesh,” “Hindu Lives Matter,” and “We Want Justice.” The crowd chanted slogans calling for peace and equality amidst a troubling rise in violence.

The protest drew a diverse group, including activists from human rights organizations, members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, and Indian-American Hindu allies standing in solidarity with Bangladesh’s Hindu community.

Unadi, a Bangladeshi protester, voiced his concerns about the vulnerability of Hindus in Bangladesh. He criticized the majority population for preventing minorities from speaking out against injustices, stating, “Our country gained independence in 1971 to ensure peaceful coexistence for all communities. Yet now, we face violence perpetrated by the majority, forcing many to flee.”

Unadi stressed the need for a shift in mindset to achieve peaceful coexistence. He highlighted the contrast between Bangladesh and other nations, where minority protections are upheld, urging for a similar approach in his home country.

A representative from the Bengali Christian Association in the UK called for constitutional reforms, noting that the current constitution designates Bangladesh as a Muslim country despite the contributions of all communities to its independence. She emphasized the need for equal treatment for all citizens.

Another protester decried the ongoing violence, reporting that many minorities in Bangladesh are being driven out of their homes. “For the past several days, our houses have been torched and our communities terrorized. We demand an end to these atrocities and the right to live safely in our own country.”

One protester shared a personal account, revealing that his home in Bangladesh had recently been looted and burned. “My house was destroyed. Just days ago, many people raided and set it on fire,” he said.

The demonstration aimed to raise awareness and prompt action to address the severe issues facing minorities in Bangladesh, highlighting the urgent need for international support and intervention.

UN Condemns Attacks on Minorities in Bangladesh

August 10, 2024, 3:22 am

A spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Farhan Haq, confirmed on Friday that the United Nations stands against attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh amidst escalating violence. Haq emphasized the UN’s stance against racially based violence and incitement, reflecting the organization’s concern over the ongoing unrest.

Recent weeks have seen a surge in violence in Bangladesh, with numerous reports and videos documenting the destruction of temples, businesses, and homes belonging to the Hindu community. This unrest has followed the resignation and flight of Sheikh Hasina from the country, amid violent protests. According to Bangladeshi media, at least 232 lives have been lost since Hasina’s departure, with the total death toll exceeding 550 since the student protests began in mid-July.

Gwyn Lewis, the UN resident coordinator in Bangladesh, who attended Muhammad Yunus’s swearing-in as the head of the interim government, expressed the UN’s commitment to supporting Yunus’s calls for peace and inclusivity. However, Haq noted that Guterres has not yet had a direct conversation with Yunus and indicated that the UN would await any official requests for investigations into the violence from the new Bangladeshi administration.

In response to the crisis, India has announced the formation of a committee to monitor the situation along the Indo-Bangladesh border, focusing on the safety of Indians and other minorities, including Hindus, in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh: Actor Shanto Khan and His Father Selim Khan Killed Amid Unrest

August 8, 2024, 4:35 pm

The killing of Bangladeshi actor Shanto Khan and his father, producer Selim Khan, during the unrest in Bangladesh has shocked the Kolkata film industry. Members of the industry, many of whom had worked with Shanto, have expressed their sorrow and refrained from commenting on the internal political situation in Bangladesh.

Reactions from Kolkata Film Industry:

Rajatabha Dutta: The actor was stunned by the news of Shanto and his father’s deaths. He described Shanto as a cooperative and respectful individual during their collaboration on the film ‘Bikkhov’ (2022). Dutta expressed sadness over the tragic event, emphasizing the yearning for peace and harmony in the arts.

Kaushani Mukhopadhyay: She received the distressing news late Monday and has been deeply troubled since. Mukhopadhyay recalled Shanto’s hospitality during their filming for ‘Piya Re’ and his respectful attitude towards her. She expressed hope for the restoration of normalcy in the region.

Raj Chakraborty: The filmmaker was shocked by the deaths and reflected on the fond memories of working in Bangladesh. He condemned the violence and loss of life, emphasizing the impact on both the film industry and humanity.

Parambrata Chatterjee: The actor-director, who has worked on several Bangladeshi projects, denounced the violence and vandalism that occurred during the unrest.

Background on the Incident:

Shanto Khan and Selim Khan were reportedly lynched in Chandpur on Monday night. Selim Khan, who owned a notable production house, was previously an expelled member of the Awami League. His killing follows a period of heightened violence involving supporters of the party, after Sheikh Hasina’s resignation from the Awami League government.

Bangladesh Unrest: Yunus Set for Swearing-In Today as BSF Foils Infiltration, Highlights

August 8, 2024, 9:51 am

Muhammad Yunus is set to be sworn in as the head of Bangladesh’s interim government on Thursday, following Sheikh Hasina’s sudden exit from power amid violent protests over government job quotas. Nobel peace laureate Yunus, who was in Paris for the Olympics when he was named interim leader, has appealed for peace, urging, “Violence is our enemy. Please don’t create more enemies. Be calm and get ready to build the country.”

The Indian Border Security Force (BSF) is on high alert due to the unrest in Bangladesh and recently thwarted a significant infiltration attempt by a large group of Bangladeshis at the International Border in West Bengal.

They intercepted 120-140 Bangladeshi citizens attempting to cross into India from various locations, primarily driven by fears of local unrest. The BSF, in coordination with the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and local civil authorities, reassured these individuals of their safety and encouraged them to return home, even sending back 35 civilians in one sector. Bangladesh’s military chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced that Yunus would be sworn in on Thursday night, with the ceremony accommodating 400 people.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has called for calm, emphasizing the need for love and peace to rebuild the country. Prior to Hasina’s resignation, at least 109 people, including 14 police officers, were killed in two days, with homes of former ministers and MPs looted, torched, or vandalized, and Hasina’s official residence in the capital ransacked. In the aftermath, Dhaka has seen calm, with student activists cleaning streets and managing traffic after police went on strike following violent attacks on police stations. Authorities have requested officials to return to duty by Thursday evening.

The US State Department has urged the interim government to respect democratic principles and to ensure stability and free, fair, and inclusive elections.

Currently, Sheikh Hasina’s future plans are uncertain. She had intended to go to London after a brief stay in India, but her stay has been extended due to uncertainties. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar noted that Hasina was in shock and needed time to recover before discussing her plans.

Sajeeb Wazed Joy, Hasina’s son, confirmed that she had not decided on seeking asylum in the UK or the US, and would remain in New Delhi for a while. Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed concerns about the situation, noting the potential for increased migration to India and the impact on regional security, particularly given that all North Eastern extremists had been removed from Bangladesh during Hasina’s rule.

Salimullah Khan: Scholar takes the reins in Bangladesh’s crisis

August 5, 2024, 9:31 pm

With the nation gripped by turmoil, Salimullah Khan has been appointed interim leader. His leadership is expected to bring a decisive approach to restoring order and implementing essential reforms.

In a surprise televised address on Monday, Bangladesh’s army chief, General Waker-Uz-Zaman, announced the formation of an interim government headed by Salimullah Khan. This comes amidst escalating tensions and violence sparked by protests against recent government job quota reforms.

These protests have been marked by fierce clashes, leading to numerous casualties. The government’s handling of the unrest has faced widespread criticism.

Khan, a respected academic and public intellectual, has emerged as a prominent figure during this crisis. Known for his outspoken views on political and social issues, he has called for an international investigation into alleged state-sponsored killings during the protests. Distrust in domestic inquiries has fueled demands for a more impartial probe.

Khan has vehemently criticized the government’s response to the protests, labeling it repressive and counterproductive. He argues that the job quota issue is fundamentally political and requires a political solution rather than a crackdown. Khan has proposed a comprehensive approach, including an unconditional government apology and resignation, as essential steps to address the root causes of the unrest.

Prioritizing the restoration of a safe learning environment in universities, Khan has called for the release of detained students and support for protest victims. This reflects his commitment to justice and academic freedom.

Key Points on Khan’s Stance on Quota Reform Protests:
State-Sponsored Killings: Khan alleges that all killings during the protests were orchestrated by state forces or their affiliates.
Demand for International Probe: Citing concerns about a fair domestic investigation, Khan has called for an international probe into the killings.
Support for Victims: Khan has expressed solidarity with those killed, injured, disappeared, or persecuted during the protests.
Political Nature of Quota Issue: Khan emphasizes the political nature of the job quota debate and the need for a political solution.
Government Repression: Khan condemns the government’s initial disregard for the issue followed by a repressive response, arguing it worsened the situation.
Ineffectiveness of Bans: Khan believes banning political parties is not a solution and will only complicate matters.
Call for Political Resolution: Khan advocates for a political solution involving a government apology and resignation as initial steps.
Safe Learning Environment: Khan prioritizes restoring safety in universities and demands the release of detained students.

Sheikh Hasina Will Not Return to Politics, Says Son Sajeeb Wazed Joy

August 5, 2024, 8:42 pm

Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son of Sheikh Hasina, has ruled out any political comeback for his mother, stating she is “deeply disappointed” by the uprising against her leadership despite her efforts to transform Bangladesh.

In an interview with the BBC World Service’s Newshour program, Joy, who served as an official adviser to the former prime minister until Monday, said Hasina had been contemplating resignation since Sunday and left the country for her safety following pressure from her family.

“She has turned Bangladesh around. When she took over power, it was considered a failing state, a poor country. Until today, it was considered one of the rising tigers of Asia,” Joy said, defending his mother’s record in office.

Addressing allegations of excessive force against protesters, Joy said the government’s response had been justified given the violence faced by law enforcement. “Policemen have been beaten to death – 13 just yesterday. What do you expect the police to do when mobs are beating people to death?”

NSA Ajit Doval Welcomes Sheikh Hasina To India Amid Bangladesh Unrest

August 5, 2024, 8:35 pm

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, along with top military officials, met former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at Ghaziabad’s Hindon Airbase. Hasina arrived in India after resigning due to escalating protests in Bangladesh.

Security Arrangements: The Indian Air Force and security agencies are providing protection to Hasina, who has been moved to a safe location in India.

Background and Resignation

Sheikh Hasina, the daughter of Bangladesh’s founder Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, served as Prime Minister since 2009 and was in her fourth term. She resigned after protesters stormed her residence in Dhaka.

Protests and Violence: Since mid-July, protests against Hasina’s government resulted in nearly 300 deaths. Demonstrations began over a government job quota system but evolved into a broader uprising.

India’s Response

Meetings: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the situation. Hasina had previously informed India’s High Commissioner in Bangladesh about attempts to destabilize her government.
Official Stance: India described the situation as an “internal” matter for Bangladesh but has provided support to Hasina.

Political Context

Hasina’s resignation marks the end of a long-standing power struggle with Bangladesh Nationalist Party leader Begum Khaleda Zia. Both women inherited political legacies from their families, with Hasina’s leadership tied to her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Interim Government and Investigation

Bangladesh Army Chief General Waker-uz-Zaman announced an interim government would soon take over and promised an investigation into the violent crackdown on protests. The military aims to restore order and address the unrest that led to Hasina’s departure.

Bangladesh Violence: Air India Cancels All Flights To Dhaka

August 5, 2024, 6:31 pm

Key Developments

Airport Closure and Flight Cancellations: Bangladesh’s international airport in Dhaka has been closed for six hours due to ongoing violent protests. Air India has canceled all flights to Dhaka with immediate effect, citing the deteriorating situation. The airline is offering support to passengers with confirmed bookings, including waivers on rescheduling and cancellation charges.

Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation: On Monday, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and left Dhaka with her sister for a “safer place.” Their aircraft, a C-130, landed at Hindon Air Base near Delhi. Reports indicate she plans to seek refuge in London.

Border Security Measures: The Border Security Force (BSF) has issued a ‘high alert’ along the 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border following Hasina’s resignation. BSF Acting DG Daljit Singh Chawdhary and senior officials have arrived in Kolkata to review security measures.

Protests and Violence: Protests demanding Hasina’s resignation, sparked by quota system grievances, have resulted in over 94 deaths and numerous injuries in Dhaka. Among the deceased are at least 14 police officers. The military has imposed a curfew in Dhaka and other cities in response to the violence.

Government Response: The Bangladeshi government has declared a three-day holiday and indefinitely closed courts. Mobile internet services have been suspended, and access to social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, Messenger, and Instagram has been blocked.

Travel Advisory: The Indian government has issued a travel advisory urging citizens to avoid travel to Bangladesh due to the ongoing unrest.

Background: The protests, initially a peaceful student movement against a preferential quota system for government jobs, have escalated into widespread violence against PM Hasina’s administration and economic policies. Despite a crackdown involving over 10,000 arrests, protests have intensified since Friday.

Foreign Hand Suspected in Bangladesh Protests: Former Indian Envoy

August 5, 2024, 5:55 pm

Former Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh and Foreign Secretary, Harsh Shringla, expressed concerns on Monday about the possibility of foreign interference in the ongoing protests against the Sheikh Hasina government.

Shringla emphasized India’s keen interest in maintaining peace and stability in Bangladesh, stating that New Delhi would engage with any government that emerges from the current situation. He underscored the strong people-to-people ties between the two nations.

While acknowledging the role of student protests over quotas, Shringla attributed the root cause of the crisis to the economic challenges faced by Bangladesh. The country has been grappling with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, exacerbated by the Ukraine conflict, which has led to soaring inflation and a balance of payments crisis.

The former envoy pointed fingers at opposition parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and the Jamaat-e-Islami, for capitalizing on the situation and fueling violence. He also raised the specter of foreign powers exploiting the unrest, potentially jeopardizing Bangladesh’s and India’s security interests.

BSF Initiates ‘Operation Alert’ On Meghalaya Border Amidst Bangladesh Unrest

July 22, 2024, 6:20 pm

Due to the current law and order situation in Bangladesh, the Border Security Force (BSF) Meghalaya frontier, which oversees the 444 km-long India-Bangladesh border, has intensified security measures. They are carrying out an “operation alert” exercise to improve border control and management.

Inspector General (IG) of BSF Meghalaya, Harbax Singh Dhillon, highlighted that ensuring the safe return of Indian students studying in Bangladesh is a major concern at present.

Since July 18, the BSF’s Meghalaya frontier has assisted in the entry of 574 Indian students, about 435 students from Nepal, and eight students from Bhutan through the Dawki Integrated Check Post (ICP) in the East Khasi Hills district. Additionally, 18 students crossed through the ICP Kilapara in the West Garo Hills district of Meghalaya on Monday.

IG BSF Meghalaya has instructed BSF officers to provide all possible assistance to Indian nationals, especially students, entering through ICP Dawki and ICP Kilapara. This includes offering drinking water, food packets, and medical aid, and helping them reach their respective destinations. He also mentioned that more students are expected to cross the border due to the ongoing unrest in Bangladesh, which is unlikely to diminish soon.

The officer assured that the BSF will provide all possible assistance to citizens from various countries, especially Indian nationals entering through proper channels. He emphasized that security along the India-Bangladesh border has been strengthened to prevent any infiltration or illegal entry.