Assam CM Backs Modi's Stand on North-East's Security Amid Bangladesh's Political Crisis

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma assured that Prime Minister Narendra Modi would ensure the North-East doesn't become a haven for terrorists amid the political turmoil in Bangladesh. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus was appointed head of Bangladesh's interim government as Sheikh Hasina resigned following protests.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma asserted on Wednesday that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is committed to preventing the North-East from turning into a sanctuary for terrorists. Addressing the political turmoil in Bangladesh, Sarma emphasized, "PM Modi will ensure the North-East does not become a safe haven for terrorists."

Sarma elaborated on the concerns arising from Bangladesh's instability. He highlighted that ongoing unrest could lead to an influx of Bangladeshi nationals into India and pointed out that extremists from the North-East had been expelled from Bangladesh during Sheikh Hasina's tenure. "The incident in Bangladesh is troubling for two reasons. Firstly, if turmoil persists, Bangladeshis may migrate to India, pressing the need to secure our borders. Secondly, North-East extremists were eradicated from Bangladesh during Sheikh Hasina's rule," Sarma noted.

He also underscored the continuing issue if Bangladesh were to become a refuge for North-East extremists. "It will continue to be a concern if Bangladesh becomes a valley for North-East extremists. We anticipate that the Indian government will engage in discussions with the incoming administration to address these issues," he added.

Bangladesh is experiencing significant political upheaval, marked by Sheikh Hasina's resignation amidst escalating protests on August 5. The protests, initially spearheaded by students against the quota system for government jobs, have expanded into widespread anti-government movements. Following Hasina's resignation and departure, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of parliament to pave the way for an interim government, as reported by Dhaka Tribune.

Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been named head of Bangladesh's interim government, according to Dhaka Tribune. The announcement was made by the President's Press Secretary, Joynal Abedin, following discussions between President Shahabuddin and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement's coordinators.

(With inputs from agencies.)