External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had a crucial discussion on the evolving situation in Bangladesh with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy during a phone call on Thursday. The conversation also covered recent developments in West Asia, read  a post Jaishankar shared on X.

Jaishankar’s call with Lammy was initiated by the UK Foreign Secretary. In his post, Jaishankar noted, "Received a call from UK Foreign Secretary @DavidLammy today. Discussed the situation in Bangladesh and West Asia."

The timing of this discussion is significant, as it follows former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's recent resignation amid escalating protests in her country. Initially, Hasina had planned to seek asylum in London, but her efforts have been thwarted due to the UK's reluctance to offer her refuge.

Hasina stepped down from her role on Monday after weeks of massive protests, which began over a job quota issue but evolved into a larger movement demanding her resignation. Shortly after her resignation, the 76-year-old Hasina arrived at Hindon Airbase near Delhi, intending to travel to London. However, her plans were disrupted when the UK indicated she might not receive legal protection against potential investigations into the protests' violence.

British Foreign Secretary Lammy expressed concerns over the situation in Bangladesh, stating that the country has witnessed unprecedented violence and loss of life in recent weeks. He called for a comprehensive and independent investigation led by the United Nations.

The UK’s immigration policy complicates Hasina’s asylum bid. According to UK rules, asylum applications must be made from within the country, and each case is assessed individually. An expert explained that the UK does not allow individuals to travel to the country solely to apply for asylum. Instead, those in need of international protection should seek asylum in the first safe country they reach.

As a result, Hasina is exploring other refuge options, including the United Arab Emirates, Belarus, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Finland.

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