In a recent development, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has engaged in discussions with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy regarding the escalating crisis in Bangladesh, following the collapse of the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid violent protests. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed the conversation on Thursday.
“The External Affairs Minister had a conversation with Foreign Secretary David Lammy just a few hours back. The two leaders discussed the developments in Bangladesh and West Asia,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated during a media briefing.
Speculation has been rife about Hasina’s plans, with reports suggesting she may be seeking political asylum in the UK. However, neither the Indian government nor the UK has officially commented on her future intentions. UK Home Office sources said that the country’s immigration regulations do not explicitly permit individuals to travel to the UK for asylum.
Earlier this week, Jaishankar clarified in Parliament that Sheikh Hasina had only sought approval to visit India “for the moment.” It is reported that Hasina intends to travel to London to be with her sister Sheikh Rehana’s daughter, Tulip Siddiq, who is a British Parliament member.
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The crisis in Bangladesh erupted following controversial changes to the quota system for government jobs, sparking widespread protests and violence that have resulted in over 550 deaths and numerous injuries. The fall of the Hasina government has been accompanied by looting and rioting across the country.
Of particular concern to India is the safety of Hindu communities in Bangladesh, with reports of attacks on their homes and temples. Jaiswal assured that efforts are underway to protect minorities, stating, “We are also monitoring the situation regarding the status of the minorities. It is the responsibility of every government to ensure the well-being of all its citizens. We hope for an early restoration of law and order in Bangladesh for the benefit of the country and the larger region.”
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Currently, around 10,000 Indians are reported to be in Bangladesh, with several reaching out to the Indian High Commission for assistance in returning to India. “The High Commission in Dhaka and other assistant high commissions are assisting them to return to India,” Jaiswal confirmed.
India maintains diplomatic presence through its High Commission in Dhaka and consulates in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet. The MEA emphasized its ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of its missions and diplomats amidst the turmoil.
