Political Turmoil in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is witnessing a period of intense political upheaval following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina by a student-led movement. The protests, which escalated into violent clashes, resulted in over 600 deaths and led to the establishment of an interim government headed by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus. Amidst the chaos, Hasina fled to India, where she has been residing since August 2024. The crisis has now taken a new turn, with US Awami League leader Dr. Rabbi Alam asserting that Hasina will soon return as Prime Minister and calling for international intervention.
Awami League Leader’s Statement: Confidence in Hasina’s Return
Dr. Rabbi Alam, Vice President of the US Awami League and a close associate of Sheikh Hasina, expressed confidence that she would reclaim her position as Bangladesh’s leader. Speaking to ANI in Kolkata, Alam claimed that the young generation of Bangladesh had been manipulated into supporting the protests that led to Hasina’s removal. He urged the current Bangladesh administration to step down and declared, “Sheikh Hasina is coming back as the Prime Minister.”
Alam also extended his gratitude to India, particularly Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for providing Hasina with safe passage and shelter. He described the current situation in Bangladesh as an “attack” on the nation and called on the international community to intervene, asserting that what was happening in Bangladesh was not just a political uprising but a “terrorist-led movement.”
Hasina’s Response: Vows to Return and Deliver Justice
Despite her exile, Hasina remains vocal about the crisis in Bangladesh. In a recent statement, she vowed to return to her homeland and ensure justice for the victims of the protests. “I shall help each and every victim’s family and ensure their killers face the law in Bangladesh. I shall return. Perhaps that’s why Allah has kept me alive,” she said.
The former Prime Minister has condemned the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, accusing it of failing to stabilize the nation. Hasina’s supporters believe that her leadership is essential for restoring order in the country.
Legal and Financial Action Against Hasina and Her Family
As Hasina remains in exile, the Bangladesh government has taken strict legal and financial actions against her and her family. A Dhaka court recently ordered the seizure of multiple properties owned by Hasina and her relatives, including her Dhanmondi residence, ‘Sudhasadan.’ Authorities have also frozen 124 bank accounts linked to her family members, including her son Sajib Wazed Joy, daughter Saima Wazed Putul, and sister Sheikh Rehana.
In addition, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal issued arrest warrants against Hasina and ten others, including her former Defense Adviser Major General (Retd.) Tarique Ahmed Siddique and ex-Inspector General of Police Benazir Ahmed. The charges relate to extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances allegedly carried out during her tenure as Prime Minister.
Diplomatic Tensions Between Bangladesh and India
Hasina’s continued presence in India has caused diplomatic friction between the two nations. The Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged an official protest with India, condemning Hasina’s statements as “false, fabricated, and incendiary.” In a formal protest note to the Indian government, Bangladesh urged immediate action to prevent Hasina from using social media and other platforms to criticize the interim government.
Despite these tensions, the Indian government has not publicly commented on its stance regarding Hasina’s return. However, India has historically maintained strong ties with Hasina’s Awami League, and her continued presence in the country indicates an implicit alignment with her cause.
The Road Ahead: Possible Outcomes
The political crisis in Bangladesh remains volatile, with multiple possible outcomes:
Hasina’s Return and Political Restoration: If Hasina successfully regains political support and international backing, she may return to Bangladesh and reclaim her position as Prime Minister. This could lead to a reversal of the policies implemented by the interim government.
Strengthening of the Interim Government: If the interim administration consolidates its power, Hasina’s chances of returning could diminish. Legal actions against her and her family may serve as deterrents to her comeback.
International Mediation: Given the escalating crisis, foreign nations and international organizations may intervene to mediate between Hasina’s supporters and the current government, potentially leading to a compromise.
For now, the political fate of Bangladesh hangs in the balance, with both Hasina’s supporters and the interim government vying for control. As tensions rise, the world watches closely to see whether Sheikh Hasina will make a historic return or if Bangladesh will embark on a new political trajectory.
(With inputs from agencies)
