External Affairs Minister (EAM) S.Jaishankar, speaking at the Hindustan Times Leadership Summit on December 6th, addressed the status of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the political situation in Bangladesh.
Jaishankar characterized Sheikh Hasina's position in India, where she took refuge last August amid protests, as a "complete personal decision." He acknowledged that the compelling circumstances of her departure, followed by a death sentence in absentia last month by a Dhaka tribunal for 'crime against humanity' related to a student movement, would influence her future choices. He maintained that the decision rests with her.
The Minister stressed India's desire to see a "credible democratic process" in Bangladesh, its neighbor. He noted that current authorities in Bangladesh had previously questioned the election process and asserted that the primary step to resolve political issues is to "ensure a fair election."
Jaishankar expressed optimism for the future of Bangladesh and the potential for stronger bilateral relations built on democratic principles, emphasizing that India wants "the will of the people to be reflected through a transparent and democratic process."
