The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Friday stated that New Delhi “had no role to play” in the recent media interaction involving former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
In a weekly press briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal clarified that the event was organised by a private entity and that the Indian government does not endorse any remarks made at the forum, reports The Times of India.
“The government had no role to play in what was an event by a private media entity,” Jaiswal said, adding that the administration does not endorse comments regarding the “duly constituted government of Bangladesh.”
The clarification follows a press conference where Hasina declared her determination to return to Bangladesh in December.
Dhaka ‘outraged’
Reacting strongly to the interaction, the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its “outrage” that the event was permitted despite Dhaka raising concerns with New Delhi over its potential impact on bilateral ties.
Describing the event as “an affront to the sovereignty of Bangladesh,” the ministry alleged that the “absconding convicted genocider” and her associates used Indian soil to launch “venomous vitriol” against the state and its people.
Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed, had urged India to clarify its policy, stating that New Delhi must decide whether it will continue to allow Awami League leaders to “carry out conspiratorial activities” from its territory.
“India is a democratic country. India itself has to decide what its foreign policy will be regarding Bangladesh,” she said, adding that while Dhaka seeks good relations, the partnership must be based on sovereign equality, mutual respect, non-interference, and national dignity.
