On Tuesday, Congress MP Manish Tewari raised significant concerns about the political turmoil in Bangladesh during a Lok Sabha session, questioning the Indian government’s approach to maintaining stability in South Asia.
Tewari underscored India’s special relationship with Bangladesh, highlighting the historical context of India’s role in the creation of Bangladesh in 1971.
He expressed alarm over the situation in Bangladesh, where intense protests and political instability have driven former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and departure.
Stressing the gravity of the situation, Tewari stated, “In January 2024, Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League formed the government for the fourth time. Yet, within six months, escalating protests forced Hasina to resign and flee the country.”
The Congress MP drew parallels with political instability in other South Asian nations, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Pakistan, where military influence over civil governments is rising.
He also noted China’s growing influence in the western Indian Ocean, warning that regional instability could have direct repercussions for India.
Tewari questioned the Centre’s actions to maintain political stability in the region, emphasizing the need for a robust response to the unfolding crisis.
Jaishankar Chairs All-Party Meeting; Assures Safety Of Indian Nationals
Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting to address the situation in Bangladesh.
Jaishankar assured leaders that India is closely monitoring developments and has taken steps to ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the region.
Meanwhile, on Monday, Sheikh Hasina arrived at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, India, after resigning as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister.
Her departure followed a violent episode in Dhaka where protesters stormed and vandalized Ganabhaban, her official residence.
Reports indicate that over 100 people were killed and more than 1,000 injured in the clashes between police and demonstrators.
A student-led movement opposing a 30% job reservation for the relatives of 1971 freedom fighters largely drove the unrest, a contentious issue tied to the country’s struggle for independence from Pakistan.
Also Read: India Monitors Bangladesh Crisis As All-Party Meeting Discusses Safety Measures
