Indian Diplomats Stay in Bangladesh Amid Political Turmoil as Sheikh Hasina Resigns

Despite ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission remains operational with senior diplomats on duty. Amid mounting protests, an Air India flight evacuated non-essential staff and families. Sheikh Hasina resigned, leading to the dissolution of parliament and appointment of Muhammad Yunus as interim government head.

Despite ongoing political unrest in Bangladesh, the Indian High Commission remains operational with senior diplomats and essential staff continuing their duties, sources informed ANI.

Non-essential staff and families of Indian diplomatic missions have been evacuated voluntarily via a commercial flight, sources added. Amid escalating tensions, an Air India flight from Dhaka carrying 199 passengers and six infants landed in Delhi early this morning. The special charter flight faced infrastructure challenges at Dhaka Airport but successfully completed the mission.

Bangladesh is currently experiencing a volatile political situation. Sheikh Hasina resigned from her post amid rising protests led mostly by students demanding an end to the government job quota system. Following her resignation, President Mohammed Shahabuddin dissolved parliament to pave the way for an interim administration, with Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus appointed as interim government head.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar revealed that approximately 19,000 Indian nationals, including 9000 students, reside in Bangladesh. Most students returned to India in July. Jaishankar informed the Lok Sabha that the government maintains constant contact with the Indian community in Dhaka. Additionally, Sheikh Hasina requested and received swift approval to travel to India, arriving in Delhi last evening.

Jaishankar noted that protests persisted in Dhaka despite a curfew, culminating in Prime Minister Hasina's resignation after consultations with security leaders. India is closely monitoring the situation, especially concerning its minority community in Bangladesh. The minister emphasized the historically close ties between India and Bangladesh.

Since the January 2024 election, Bangladesh's political climate has been marked by deep divides and increasing polarization. This backdrop intensified a student movement that began in June, escalating to violent protests, attacks on public buildings, and infrastructure disruptions. Throughout this period, India consistently advocated for restraint and dialogue to resolve the issues peacefully.

(With inputs from agencies.)