Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina struck an upbeat note on Indo-Bangla relations, insisting their bedrock is unshakeable despite recent frictions. Speaking exclusively via email, the Awami League president thanked PM Modi and India’s populace for their humanitarian support.
The ties, she said, are anchored in profound historical and geographical connections, collaborative efforts, and joint regional security goals. Hasina lauded India’s push for democratic governance, minority safeguards, and peace as spot-on priorities.
‘A trustworthy, elected government in Bangladesh is essential for our partnership,’ she remarked, implicitly critiquing the Yunus-led interim regime plagued by minority pogroms and diplomatic provocations.
Context is crucial: Yunus’s administration coincides with surging assaults on Hindus, strikes on Indian outposts, and security breakdowns ahead of February 12 elections. Political volatility shows no signs of abating.
Undeterred, Hasina envisioned brighter days: ‘Our solid foundation will carry us through; elected leadership will elevate our alliance.’
India, meanwhile, amplifies concerns over minority atrocities—Hindus, Christians, Buddhists—targeted relentlessly. FM spokesperson Jaiswal slammed a Mymensingh Hindu’s slaying, vowing vigilance.
Rejecting ‘fabricated anti-India stories,’ India stressed the host government’s duty to protect. It summoned Dhaka’s High Commissioner last month over threats to its facilities and lawlessness.
Foreign Ministry logs tally over 2,900 minority-directed violences post-interim takeover: homicides, incendiarism, encroachments. Such scale defies trivialization as political noise or press overreach.
Hasina’s affirmation arrives at a pivotal moment, reminding stakeholders of enduring mutual benefits from stable borders, booming trade, and counter-terror synergy. As polls near, her optimism charts a path toward mending and advancing this vital relationship.