Bangladesh Press Secretary urges India to halt facilitation of Hasina’s media campaign

November 19, 2025

Bangladesh's interim government has expressed serious diplomatic concerns over India's decision to allow ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to remain indefinitely in the country and grant her access to Indian media outlets. Following her flight from Dhaka in August 2024 after a major uprising, Hasina has been residing in a secure New Delhi location while facing numerous charges in Bangladesh, including crimes against humanity for which she was sentenced to death in absentia. The interim government, led by Chief Adviser Professor Yunus, claims to have stabilized Bangladesh's collapsed economy and institutions over the past year while implementing democratic reforms.

Who is affected

Sheikh Hasina (ousted Prime Minister facing charges and death sentence)
The Awami League party and its supporters
Bangladesh's interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus
Citizens of Bangladesh (particularly those involved in the July-August 2024 uprising)
Indian government officials and diplomats
Women's rights activists in Bangladesh
The garments industry and banking sector in Bangladesh
Indian Deputy High Commissioner Pawan Badhe (summoned by Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs)

What action is being taken

India is officially allowing Sheikh Hasina to remain in the country indefinitely
Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has summoned Indian diplomats to convey concerns
The interim government has implemented 11 reform commissions with judicial measures
Police have been instructed to show zero tolerance toward violence and political sabotage
The Election Commission is implementing its roadmap and introducing strict campaign codes of conduct
Law enforcement and armed forces are preparing to ensure a neutral election environment
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is actively addressing issues related to Hasina's media appearances

Why it matters

This situation represents a significant diplomatic crisis between two major South Asian neighbors with deep historical and economic ties. The controversy threatens regional stability and cooperation at a critical juncture when Bangladesh is attempting to rebuild democratic institutions after years of authoritarian rule. The interim government's ability to conduct credible elections while managing tensions with India will determine Bangladesh's political trajectory and could affect regional dynamics involving other powers like China, the United States, and the European Union. Additionally, the death sentence handed to a former prime minister and the accusations of crimes against humanity highlight the severe nature of the political reckoning taking place in Bangladesh.

What's next

The Crimes Tribunal will soon deliver its verdict on Sheikh Hasina's case (beyond the November 2024 conviction mentioned)
Bangladesh will hold both parliamentary elections and a constitutional referendum on the same day in early February 2026
The Election Commission will continue implementing its roadmap for the 13th parliamentary elections
Indian journalists are being encouraged to visit Bangladesh during the upcoming elections to witness ground realities

Read full article from source: Global Voices