Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Accuses Muhammad Yunus-Led Interim Government of Stoking Anti-India Sentiment
Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has accused the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of deliberately stoking anti-India sentiment in the country. She alleged that the administration has emboldened extremist forces, weakened democratic institutions, and created hostility toward New Delhi through its actions and rhetoric.
Hasina claimed that strained ties with India were the result of decisions taken under Yunus’s leadership, including the release of convicted terrorists and failure to protect minorities. She emphasized that India has been Bangladesh’s most steadfast partner and warned that the interim government’s approach risks destabilizing bilateral relations and undermining regional stability.
Her remarks come at a time of heightened political uncertainty in Bangladesh, with the interim government facing criticism for lacking a democratic mandate. Analysts note that Hasina’s accusations highlight growing tensions between the former ruling party and the current administration, with implications for South Asia’s diplomatic and security landscape.
Former Indian diplomat Veena Sikri has also backed Hasina’s claims, pointing to symbolic actions by Yunus’s government that she said reflected anti-India sentiment. Observers argue that the episode underscores the challenges of balancing domestic politics with international partnerships in a volatile regional environment.
Hasina concluded by reiterating that India has consistently supported Bangladesh’s development and democratic journey, and cautioned that the interim government’s policies could erode trust and cooperation between the two neighbors.
