Bangladesh Expresses Concern Over Sheikh Hasina’s Media Appearance in India, Says It Could Affect Bilateral Relations

Dhaka, August 6: The Government of Bangladesh has expressed strong concern over former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's live interaction with the media in New Delhi, saying the event could have adverse implications for Bangladesh-India bilateral relations.

In an official statement issued on Wednesday, the government said Sheikh Hasina and her associates made remarks during the event that it described as offensive to the State of Bangladesh and its people.

According to the statement, Bangladesh had previously conveyed its concerns to the Government of India, warning that allowing such an event could negatively affect ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties. Despite those concerns, the event was allowed to proceed.

The government further stated that the event, held on the anniversary of the July Revolution, was viewed as inconsistent with the sentiments of the Bangladeshi people and the country's sovereignty.

The statement also said that attempts to deny findings related to the July-August 2024 events, including those referenced by the United Nations, would not alter historical facts.

Bangladesh reaffirmed its commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and national sovereignty, while emphasizing its desire to maintain a constructive, mutually beneficial, and forward-looking relationship with India based on sovereign equality, mutual respect, non-interference in internal affairs, and national dignity.

The government also noted that Bangladesh has repeatedly requested the extradition of Sheikh Hasina under the 2013 Bangladesh-India Extradition Treaty, but said it has not yet received an official response from the Indian government. It added that permitting her public media appearance has caused concern among many people in Bangladesh and could affect the development of harmonious bilateral relations.