India Rejects Bangladesh's Claims Amid Political Tensions

India's Stance on Bangladesh's Allegations

On Sunday, India firmly stated that it has never permitted its territory to be utilized for actions detrimental to Bangladesh's interests. This declaration follows accusations from Dhaka regarding remarks made by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India in August 2024 amid protests in her homeland.

Bangladesh's government alleged that Hasina's comments were inciting her supporters to engage in violent acts to disrupt the upcoming parliamentary elections scheduled for February.

In response, Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned the Indian High Commissioner to express its serious concerns regarding Hasina's statements and reiterated its demand for her swift extradition.

India's Ministry of External Affairs subsequently rejected the claims made by the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus, emphasizing its commitment to supporting free and fair elections in Bangladesh.

The ministry expressed hope that the interim government would ensure law and order to facilitate peaceful elections.

Hasina resigned and fled to India on August 5, 2024, following extensive protests against her Awami League government, which had been in power for 16 years.

Yunus, a Nobel laureate, assumed leadership of the interim government shortly after Hasina's departure.

Since the fall of her government, Bangladesh has been pursuing Hasina's return, especially after she and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal were sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity.

The tribunal's verdict, which was the first in a series of cases related to her government's actions during the protests, has been described by Hasina as politically motivated.

A United Nations report released in February highlighted serious human rights violations committed by Hasina's government during the protests, with a significant number of casualties attributed to security forces.

Bangladesh is set to conduct its 13th national election on February 12, with Yunus indicating he would resign once a new government is established.

The previous elections in January 2024 saw Hasina's Awami League winning a majority, although the vote was marred by allegations of rigging and a boycott from major opposition parties.

In May, the interim government prohibited all activities of the Awami League under anti-terrorism laws, a move Hasina criticized as unjust, warning it could jeopardize the legitimacy of the upcoming elections.