‘Surprised, shocked’: Bangladesh rattled by Sheikh Hasina’s Delhi address, lodges protest, warns of strained ties – Firstpost

Bangladesh on Sunday noted it was “surprised and shocked” after former prime minister Sheikh Hasina addressed a public event in New Delhi, warning that her remarks threaten the country’s peace, security, and democratic transition.

On Friday, Hasina made her first public appearance since leaving office, delivering an audio message that was played to an audience at a crowded press club in Delhi. The 78-year-old has been in India since August 2024, after a student-led uprising ended her 15-year rule.

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In a statement, Bangladesh’s foreign ministry declared the speech had angered both the government and the public. “The government and the people of Bangladesh are surprised and shocked,” it said.

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The ministry strongly criticised India for allowing the address to take place in its capital, saying permitting “mass murderer Hasina” to openly deliver what it described as hate speech in New Delhi “constitutes a clear affront to the people and the government of Bangladesh”.

Dhaka warned that the move could damage bilateral ties, saying it set “a dangerous precedent” that could “seriously impair bilateral relations”.

Convicted in absentia

Hasina faces serious legal challenges in Bangladesh. In November, a Dhaka court found her guilty in absentia on charges including incitement, issuing orders to kill, and failing to prevent atrocities. She was sentenced to death by hanging.

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The controversy comes at a sensitive moment, with Bangladesh preparing for national elections scheduled for February 12, following months of political unrest after the removal of Hasina’s government.

Calls to overthrow interim government

During her address, Hasina criticised the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, urging citizens to overthrow it. She accused the government of corruption and claimed Bangladesh would “never experience free and fair elections” under Yunus’s leadership. She also called for the protection of minorities, women, and vulnerable groups, and demanded a “truly impartial” UN investigation into events since her government’s fall.

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Awami League leaders join event

Other Awami League leaders, including former ministers Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury and AK Abdul Momen, also addressed the event, reiterating accusations against Yunus and questioning the credibility of the upcoming election.

Bangladesh criticises India

The Bangladeshi government also criticised India for not extraditing Hasina despite repeated requests, saying the public address endangered the country’s democratic process and security. It warned that the Awami League would be held responsible for any violence or unrest linked to the party before and during the elections.

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