GHAZIABAD, INDIA, August 8, 2024, Former Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina has sought temporary refuge in India amid growing political turmoil in Bangladesh. Her sudden resignation and departure have thrown the nation into chaos, raising concerns about its stability and future ties with India.
Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in Ghaziabad: Arrival and Current Situation
On August 5th, Sheikh Hasina landed at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad, India. She arrived on a Bangladeshi Air Force C-130J military aircraft shortly after stepping down as PM . This move followed meetings with Bangladesh’s security leaders.
Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar told an all-party meeting on Tuesday: “PM Sheikh Hasina decided to resign after meeting with Bangladesh’s security establishment leaders. She asked for temporary shelter in India and arrived in Delhi last evening.”
PM Sheikh Hasina Shock and Extended Stay
Sources say Hasina is struggling to process the rapid changes in Bangladesh. India is giving her time to recover before talking about what comes next.
Hasina initially planned to go to London. She changed her mind when the UK hinted it might not shield her from possible legal action. As a result, she’s likely to stay in India for at least several days, according to Press Trust of India (PTI) sources.
PM Sheikh Hasina Unexpected Shopping Trip
In an odd twist, Hasina reportedly went shopping at Hindon Airbase. She spent about 30,000 Indian Rupees on basics, including clothes for herself and her sister. She paid mostly in Indian money, using some Bangladeshi cash when she ran short.
PM Sheikh Hasina Unrest in Bangladesh
Hasina left during violent protests against reservation policies in Bangladesh. Her exit created a power vacuum, leading the military to take control and worsening the country’s instability.
India’s Response and Regional Impact
India is watching Bangladesh closely. Jaishankar said India is in touch with the Bangladeshi military and will share updates. He noted that anti-India feelings in Bangladesh go up and down but expressed hope for good relations with future governments.
Next Steps and Global Reactions
Hasina was set to fly to Dubai, but hasn’t moved yet. Increased activity at Hindon Airbase, including embassy cars arriving, suggests she might be moving to Delhi or elsewhere soon.
The world is watching these events closely, especially how they might affect regional stability and Bangladesh’s relationships with its neighbors.
As Hasina plans her next move under India’s protection, the region remains tense. The ongoing crisis in Bangladesh poses big challenges for the country’s stability and its foreign relations, especially with India. The coming days will be crucial in shaping Bangladesh’s political future and its impact on South Asian politics.
