Dhaka: Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), has stated that improving Indo-Bangla relations hinges on the extradition of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Alamgir suggested that her continued presence in India might strain the already tense relations between Bangladesh and India. The BNP leader emphasized his party’s commitment to fostering a positive relationship with India and indicated a readiness to move past historical conflicts.
Alamgir criticized the previous Adani electricity deal signed during Hasina’s tenure, describing it as burdensome for Bangladesh's citizens. He promised that a BNP-led government would reassess this agreement and address any issues it may have caused.
The BNP leader accused India of failing to understand Bangladeshi sentiments and noted that despite the fall of Hasina's government, India had yet to engage with the BNP, unlike other major powers. Alamgir also dismissed reports of attacks on Hindu minorities in Bangladesh as politically motivated rather than communal, insisting that the situation was under control and not a major issue.
Alamgir reiterated that Hasina must face justice in Bangladesh for alleged crimes committed during her rule. He urged India to facilitate her return to Bangladesh to mend bilateral relations.
Alamgir’s remarks come amid speculation about Hasina's prolonged stay in India following a political upheaval in Bangladesh. He warned that failing to address this issue could further damage Indo-Bangla ties and exacerbate existing grievances in Bangladesh.
Regarding the "India out" campaign in Bangladesh, Alamgir attributed the anti-India sentiment to India's focus on its relationship with the Awami League rather than engaging with the broader Bangladeshi populace. He expressed hopes for a stronger Indo-Bangla relationship if the BNP comes to power, promising to address past differences and promote pragmatic diplomacy.
On the matter of minority safety, Alamgir defended Bangladesh’s internal handling of the issue and criticized external interventions. He assured that the BNP would prevent any anti-India forces from gaining a foothold in Bangladesh.
Alamgir expressed hope for timely elections in Bangladesh and clarified that the BNP is not currently allied with Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, though joint actions against the Awami League had occurred during recent political unrest.
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