Bangladesh Seeks Clarity from India on Sheikh Hasina's Upcoming Press Conference

Dhaka's Concerns Over Political Activities

Dhaka: The Bangladeshi government has requested clarification from India regarding its stance on Sheikh Hasina's upcoming press conference scheduled for Wednesday in New Delhi, which coincides with the second anniversary of her government's removal, as stated by a minister on Monday.

During a media briefing, Shama Obaed Islam, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs, expressed concerns that Hasina's political activities from Indian territory could negatively affect the relationship between the two nations.

Reports indicate that the 78-year-old Hasina is set to participate virtually in a private event organized by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) on August 5 in New Delhi. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, former education minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel, and Mahammad Ali Siddique, general secretary of Bangladesh Human Rights Watch, are also expected to attend.

"Bangladesh is looking for India to clarify its position on this issue," Shama remarked, emphasizing that Dhaka aims to prevent any deterioration in bilateral relations.

She further noted that political activities by individuals labeled as "fugitives from India" who aim to destabilize Bangladesh could strain ties, reiterating that Dhaka has consistently maintained that such individuals should not engage in political activities on Indian soil.

"We desire improved relations with India, and I believe India shares this sentiment," she added.

In a separate statement, Humayun Kabir, the Foreign Affairs adviser to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, warned that Hasina's planned address from Indian soil could jeopardize the "positive momentum in bilateral relations," as reported by the state-run BSS news agency.

Kabir made these remarks during a courtesy visit from Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi on Monday, where they reviewed various aspects of Bangladesh-India relations and discussed mutual interests.

The Indian High Commission in Dhaka stated that the discussions focused on enhancing people-centric cooperation between the neighboring countries, based on mutual interests and benefits.

The High Commissioner reiterated India's commitment to collaborating positively with the Bangladeshi government to fulfill the developmental aspirations of both nations.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced on Monday that law enforcement and security agencies have been placed on high alert ahead of August 5 to ensure public safety and maintain order throughout the country.

"All necessary measures have been implemented to guarantee a peaceful and secure environment leading up to August 5," he informed reporters.

Sheikh Hasina's government was ousted on August 5, 2024, following violent protests led by students, prompting her to flee to India.

An interim government that took over after her removal disbanded her political party, the Awami League, through an executive order under anti-terrorism legislation.

In November 2025, Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia after being found guilty of crimes against humanity by the International Crimes Tribunal for her involvement in the violent suppression of the 2024 student protests.

Hasina has dismissed these charges as politically motivated.

Bangladesh has been pursuing Hasina's extradition for some time, and New Delhi has acknowledged the request, stating that it is currently under legal review.