Former ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is currently residing in India and will remain there, according to Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Indian Ministry of External Affairs.
Jaiswal’s statement, made on Thursday, comes amid ongoing speculation regarding Hasina’s location, with conflicting reports suggesting she may have traveled to another country.
In recent days, some media outlets in Bangladesh reported that Sheikh Hasina had flown to the United Arab Emirates,
while others claimed she was issued a travel document by the Indian government.
The speculation prompted journalists to seek clarification during a media briefing on Thursday.
Jaiswal confirmed that Sheikh Hasina had come to India on short notice due to security concerns and remains in the country. However, he did not provide further details on her situation.
The briefing also touched on recent developments in Bangladesh, including the arrest warrants issued by the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh against Sheikh Hasina, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, and 45 others. The tribunal has ordered them to appear in court by November 18.
However, when questioned about India’s stance on the matter, Jaiswal stated that they had seen the reports but refrained from commenting further.
Journalists also raised questions regarding the interim Bangladeshi government’s decision to cancel eight national holidays, including the historic March 7 and March 17 celebrations. The Indian spokesperson declined to respond.
Additionally, since Sheikh Hasina’s departure from Bangladesh, India’s visa process for Bangladeshi nationals has not returned to normal.
When asked about the potential resumption of regular visa services, Jaiswal explained that limited visas are currently being issued for urgent and medical purposes.
He added that if the law and order situation improves and conditions become favorable, visa processing will return to normal.
Jaiswal also noted that India had previously issued a statement condemning attacks on minorities, including Hindus, and the vandalism of Durga Puja pandals.
At that time, Bangladesh’s interim government had assured the protection of minorities, and they need to fulfill that promise.
