Foreign Adviser to the Prime Minister Humayun Kabir on Monday told Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi that any political statement or activity by former prime minister Sheikh Hasina from Indian territory could have a negative impact on Bangladesh-India relations.
The issue was raised during a meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office amid speculation that the ousted premier, who remains in India, may deliver a public address on August 5.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the adviser conveyed Bangladesh’s expectation that India would prevent members of banned organisations, including the fugitive Sheikh Hasina, from using its territory to make political statements or carry out activities aimed at creating instability in Bangladesh.
He said such activities could undermine the positive momentum in bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries.
The Indian High Commissioner assured the adviser that he would look into the matter, make the necessary inquiries and remain vigilant, the statement said.
Speculation over Sheikh Hasina’s possible address gained traction after reports circulated on social media claiming that she would speak virtually from New Delhi on August 5.
According to a leaflet circulating online, the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia is planning to organise an event at which Sheikh Hasina would address journalists virtually and express her appreciation ahead of what the leaflet describes as her “homecoming.”
The authenticity of the leaflet and the reported event could not be independently verified.
The issue comes at a time when Dhaka and New Delhi are working to improve bilateral ties following months of diplomatic strain. Observers say any political activity involving the former prime minister from Indian soil could complicate those efforts and become a fresh point of contention between the two neighbours.
