The government has had preliminary discussions with Sheikh Hasina, who resigned as Prime Minister...
Digital Desk: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addressed an all-party meeting on Tuesday to discuss the current situation in Bangladesh. He stated that the conditions in the violence-hit country were not severe enough to necessitate the evacuation of the 12,000-13,000 Indians residing there, according to sources.
Following the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina-led government amid anti-government protests that have resulted in over 300 deaths, Jaishankar assured that the Indian government is closely monitoring the developments in Bangladesh. The protests were sparked by a controversial quota system for government jobs.
Jaishankar informed that around 8,000 Indians, primarily students, had already returned to India amidst the unrest. The government has had preliminary discussions with Sheikh Hasina, who resigned as Prime Minister and sought refuge in India on Monday. "The government wants to give Hasina some time to decide her future plan," sources quoted Jaishankar as saying.
During the meeting, Congress MP Rahul Gandhi emphasized the need for a medium and long-term strategy, given that an interim government will rule Bangladesh until elections are conducted. Student protesters have called for Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus to be appointed as the chief adviser of the interim government.
Jaishankar described the situation as "fluid and developing." Addressing concerns of anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh, he remarked, "It has been seen in some places but whichever government comes will deal with India."
Following Sheikh Hasina's fourth consecutive term earlier this year, an 'India out' campaign has gained traction in Bangladesh, with some activists accusing India of meddling in its politics.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi commented on the potential repercussions for India, stating, "Whatever is happening in Bangladesh, it will affect India as well. Bangladesh is our border nation... if anarchy happens in Bangladesh it won't be good for India. The government should look at how Indians there can be brought back and how borders can be secured."
Jaishankar is scheduled to address the issue further in the Lok Sabha at 3.30 pm today.
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