In response to the recent upheaval in Bangladesh, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting on Tuesday to discuss the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government and the subsequent military takeover amid violent protests.
Jaishankar briefed party leaders on the situation in the violence-stricken nation and outlined the steps the Indian government is taking to address potential security, economic, and diplomatic repercussions.
Sources indicate that the Foreign Minister detailed the Centre’s strategy to manage the fallout with the new administration in Bangladesh while supporting the ousted leader. “It’s a prevailing situation. The government will take appropriate action at the right time,” Jaishankar reportedly told the MPs.
Jaishankar emphasized that the government is allowing Sheikh Hasina, currently in Delhi, time to decide her future course of action. He also assured that India is closely monitoring the evolving situation and is in touch with the Bangladeshi Army, which is set to form an interim government after Hasina’s ouster, to ensure the safety of Indian nationals and minorities in Bangladesh.
ALSO READ: Sheikh Hasina may never return to politics: Son Sajeeb Wajed Joy
The meeting was attended by key ministers, including Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju.
Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled Bangladesh as massive crowds of protesters demanded her exit. Shortly after her resignation, Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman announced that the military would form an interim government and called for an end to the protests.
Sheikh Hasina landed at Hindon Air Force base in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, about 30 km from Delhi, where she was received by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed by Jaishankar on the situation in Bangladesh, which has resulted in over 300 deaths so far. It remains unclear whether Modi will meet Hasina.
ALSO READ: Why students are protesting against Bangladesh government and how ‘razakar’ comment by Sheikh Hasina has made things worse
In light of the crisis, India’s Border Security Force is on high alert along the 4,096 km border with Bangladesh, with field commanders instructed to take “on ground” positions and be prepared for any developments.
Sheikh Hasina had attempted to quell the nationwide protests against her government but fled after fresh clashes on Sunday resulted in nearly 100 deaths. The anti-government rallies, which began last month over civil service job quotas, escalated into some of the worst unrest of Hasina’s 15-year rule and transformed into broader demands for the 76-year-old leader to step down.
