Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has launched a scathing attack on the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, expressing deep concerns over the deteriorating situation in the country. She asserted that Bangladesh's prosperity and security are intrinsically linked to good relations with India, a bond she fears is being jeopardized under the current administration. Hasina also conveyed her gratitude and happiness for India's solidarity in maintaining. Hospitality towards her, a stance recently supported by all political parties in India.
Worsening Conditions in Bangladesh
In an email interview with news agency ANI, Sheikh Hasina detailed the alarming decline in conditions across Bangladesh. She highlighted a surge in violence against minorities, widespread vandalism, and arson incidents. On top of that, anti-India protests have intensified, which Hasina views as detrimental to the nation's interests. She underscored her concern, shared by a significant number of Bangladeshis, for the loss of the safe, secular country Bangladesh once was.
Yunus's Lack of Leadership Experience
Hasina questioned Yunus's suitability for leadership, stating, "Yunus is no politician, nor does he have any experience running a complex country. " She accused him of appointing extremists to crucial positions, including the cabinet, and releasing convicted terrorists from jail. According to Hasina, several groups linked to international terrorist organizations have been allowed to play a role in public life, fostering an environment conducive to radicalization.
Rising Extremism and its Implications
The former PM expressed her fear that radical elements are using Yunus to present an acceptable face to the international community while systematically radicalizing Bangladesh's institutions from within. She warned that this situation should be a concern not only for India but for every country invested in stability in the South Asian region, while hasina emphasized that the secular character of Bangladeshi politics was one of its greatest strengths, which must not be squandered at the whim of a few misguided extremists.
Irresponsible 'Chicken Neck' Statements
Addressing statements concerning India's North-East states and the 'Chicken Neck' region, Sheikh Hasina labeled them as "very dangerous and utterly irresponsible, while " She stated that such remarks reveal the extremist elements who have expanded their influence through Yunus. Hasina argued that no serious leader would threaten a neighboring. Country on which Bangladesh depends for trade, transit, and regional stability. She clarified that such rhetoric serves only ideological fantasies, not Bangladesh's national interests, and that India is fully justified in viewing these statements with concern.
Breakdown of Law and Order: The Hadi Murder
Hasina cited the tragic murder of youth leader Osman Hadi as a stark illustration of the breakdown in law and order that led to the removal of her government and has worsened under Yunus's rule. She noted that violence has become commonplace, with the interim government either denying it or failing to curb it. Such incidents, she warned, destabilize Bangladesh internally and strain its relationships with neighboring countries.
Minority Persecution and India's Valid Concerns
Expressing deep disappointment over the violence against minorities, Sheikh Hasina remarked that India is witnessing the erosion of stability, the persecution of minorities, and the undoing of all that both nations had built together. She stressed that a country's international credibility diminishes when it can't maintain basic order within its borders, which she described as the reality of Yunus's Bangladesh. Hasina asserted that India's concerns about the safety of its personnel are valid, as Yunus is granting impunity to thugs and labeling them as 'warriors' instead of protecting diplomatic missions.
Upcoming Elections and Awami League Ban
Regarding the upcoming elections in Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina declared that without the Awami League, any election would be a 'coronation' rather than a genuine democratic exercise. She accused Yunus of ruling without a single vote from the Bangladeshi people and now attempting to ban a party that has been elected nine times. Hasina warned that if the ban on the Awami League persists, millions of people will be disenfranchised, as Bangladeshis often choose not to vote at all if their preferred party isn't on the ballot.
Hasina's Stance on the ICT Decision
On the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) decision, the former Prime Minister stated that it. Had "nothing to do with justice" and was purely a matter of political rivalry. She claimed she was denied the right to defend herself and choose her own counsel, asserting that the tribunal was used to exact revenge against the Awami League. Despite this, Hasina affirmed her faith in Bangladesh's institutions, expressing confidence that justice would prevail once legitimate governance is restored and the judiciary regains its independence.
