Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina termed India a reliable friend and thanked PM Narendra Modi for his continued support in maintaining democratic stability in Bangladesh. In an exclusive interview with CNN-News18, Hasina said that India's role has been crucial to preventing Bangladesh from falling into a ‘Pakistan-style’ governance system, which she described as authoritarian and dominated by extremist influences.
‘India's support crucial for democratic stability'
Hasina made it clear that India's support for Bangladesh's democratic aspirations was a necessity not only bilaterally but also regionally: “India’s priority has always been a stable and democratic government in Bangladesh,” she said. “We only ask that India support Bangladeshis in choosing their government. India’s continued support will be crucial to prevent Bangladesh from falling into a ‘Pakistan-style’ governance system.”
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She went on to say that India's approach to Bangladesh goes beyond friendship. "Our friends in India must remain committed to their call for democracy and inclusivity. This is the best way to protect our country from governance collapse and ensure peace in South Asia," Hasina said.
Since her exile, Hasina has time and again recognised India’s diplomatic backing. She thanked New Delhi for its stand on the persecution of minorities by the present interim regime. The former premier asserted that her party, the Awami League, was well entrenched among Bangladeshi society. She said that Awami League enjoys the support of millions of ordinary Bangladeshis and does not require reconstruction within Bangladesh, emphasising her continued engagement in the politics of the country.
Hasina slams Muhammad Yunus
As per a report by India.com, she launched a sharp attack on Muhammad Yunus, who heads the interim government in Dhaka, saying that his administration is a threat to Bangladesh. Hasina also accused Yunus of playing into the hands of “extremists” and warned that his leadership could lead to political instability.
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Hasina avoided any sign of tension between Dhaka and New Delhi on her part by saying, “These issues stem from his sponsorship of extremists, failure to protect religious minorities, and anti-India rhetoric from his administration. These are the actions of an inexperienced leader who does not understand the importance of our partnership.”
As per the report, Hasina voiced profound concern over the weakening democratic governance in Bangladesh. She warned that if the democratic norms are not restored sooner or later, the country would face a future where different fundamentalist groups would continue to hold sway over it. Hasina accused Yunus’s interim government of functioning under the influence of radical organisations like the Hizb ut-Tahrir and said this is a serious threat to political stability in Bangladesh and peace in the region.
