India’s message to US not interference in internal matters: AL

Staff Reporter :
If India conveys any message to the United States (US) regarding Bangladesh, it is solely for their own interests and it should not be considered as interference in internal matters.

“Both India and America have common interests in this region regarding regional politics.

So if India says something to America, they say it in their interest. So, when India communicates with the United States, it is done for their own interests,” Awami League (AL) General Secretary Obaidul Quader said while addressing an awareness programme on dengue in the capital on Saturday.

Obaidul Quader, also Road Transport and Bridges Minister, alleged that the BNP has turned to the US, while Awami League to the people.

Earlier on Friday, German-based Deutsche Welle (DW) and Indian media Anandabazar quoted diplomatic sources saying a message has been conveyed to Washington that “New Delhi is not happy with the current role of the US in the upcoming national elections in Bangladesh.”

India believes “weakening the Sheikh Hasina government in Bangladesh will not be good for either India or the United States.”

When asked about India’s interference, Obaidul Quader said, “We’d prefer not to discuss this topic.

India has been a tested friend to us. Our transition from power in 1975 was not facilitated by India.

Similarly, in 2001, our departure from power was a result of the people’s choice.”

He further said, “Those who claim India has intervened [by sending message to the US] then what happened in 1971? India provided crucial support during that time, offering aid, and shelter to our refugees, and even deploying soldiers who contributed significantly.

They also provided weapons and training.

Is it not an interference in internal affairs?”
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina took the country to a prestigious position through developments, he said adding if the people vote for continuation of the development, the Awami League will assume the state power again.

At different political events, BNP leaders have threatened that the ruling Awami League leaders will not get a chance to flee the country.

Claiming that Awami League has no history of fleeing the country, Obaidul Quader said BNP’s acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has been sentenced to 20 years in jail and he is doing politics like a coward.

No movement under his leadership can lead to success, the Awami League leader added.

Terming BNP dangerous like the dengue, Obaidul Quader called for preventing the two prime foes of the country.

He said lives are not secure amidst the dengue menace, just as the country’s democracy and security remain insecure under BNP.

The AL General Secretary said, “The people of the country will put us in power. BNP is certainly not looking at anyone.

it is looking only at America, with speculations about potential bans and changes in visa policies. However, our primary concern remains the welfare of our nation and the people.”

He made a call to gear up the anti-dengue campaign throughout the country, in addition to the capital city.