Dhaka: Dhaka today expressed shock and surprise over India's decision to permit fugitive Sheikh Hasina, who has been convicted by the International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity, to address a public event in New Delhi. During the event, Hasina called for the removal of the Bangladesh government and incited acts of terror to disrupt the forthcoming general elections.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Foreign Ministry issued a statement this afternoon, emphasizing the threat posed to Bangladesh's democratic transition, peace, and security by such actions. The Ministry expressed its deep grievance over India's failure to fulfill its obligations under the bilateral extradition agreement by not handing over Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh, despite multiple requests.
The statement highlighted that allowing the event and the hate speech in the Indian capital violated norms of inter-state relations, including respect for sovereignty, non-interference, and good neighborliness. This was described as a clear affront to the people and the Government of Bangladesh.
The Foreign Ministry warned that such actions set a dangerous precedent for future Bangladesh-India relations and could significantly hinder the ability of future elected governments in Bangladesh to foster mutually beneficial bilateral ties. The Ministry further accused the Awami League leadership of incitement, which justified the Interim Government's decision to ban the party's activities.
The statement concluded by holding the Awami League accountable for any violence and terror incidents leading up to and on the election day, pledging to take necessary actions to thwart any conspiracies. The Ministry pointed out that on January 23 in New Delhi, the deposed Hasina openly called for the government's removal and incited her party supporters and the public to engage in terror acts to disrupt the upcoming elections in Bangladesh.