Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has accused the Yunus government of damaging relations with India, failing to protect minorities, and orchestrating electoral machinations. She said that elections without the Awami League would violate public rights. She called the extradition demand political and said she would return to Bangladesh only after legitimate rule was restored.

While the situation in Dhaka may appear calm after the past several days of violence and protests, tensions and accusations have intensified in Bangladesh's political landscape. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has launched a scathing attack on the interim government and its head, Mohammad Yunus. She stated that Yunus is responsible for what is happening in Bangladesh. Sitting in India, she stated that the violence that erupted after the assassination of Sharif Osman Hadi has not only worsened the situation within the country but has also destabilized relations with neighboring countries. In an email interview with news agency ANI, Sheikh Hasina said that the same lawlessness that toppled her government has now increased manifold under Yunus' government.

What did he say on India-Bangladesh relations?

Speaking on India-Bangladesh relations, Sheikh Hasina stated that the current tensions were the handiwork of the Yunus government. She alleged that the Yunus administration consistently issues hostile statements against India, fails to protect religious minorities, and allows extremists to dictate foreign policy. Yet, the same government expresses surprise at the worsening relations. Sheikh Hasina's comments come after a 27-year-old Hindu man, Dip Chandra Das, was beaten to death and his body later burned for alleged blasphemy.

Sheikh Hasina said that India has been Bangladesh's most trusted friend and partner for decades. The relationship between the two countries is deep and fundamental, and it is stronger than any temporary government. She expressed confidence that when the rule of law is restored in Bangladesh, Bangladesh will return to the same understanding and shared relationship that the Awami League government strengthened for fifteen years.

What did you say about the decisions against you?

Reacting to the verdict against her, Sheikh Hasina said that the decision has nothing to do with justice and is a pure conspiracy to eliminate her politically. She said that she was denied the right to defend herself and was not allowed to choose a lawyer of her choice. According to her, the tribunal was used to target the Awami League.

'Millions of people will not vote at all'

Sheikh Hasina issued a strong statement regarding the upcoming elections. She said that any election without the Awami League would not be free and fair, but rather a coronation. She alleged that Yunus was ruling without a single vote from the people and now wanted to ban the party that had been given the mandate nine times. Sheikh Hasina warned that history shows that when Bangladeshi citizens are unable to vote for their preferred party, they simply do not vote at all. This would effectively disenfranchise millions. She said that any government formed through such elections would lose moral authority and would be a major missed opportunity for national reconciliation.

India expressed gratitude

Responding to the demands for extradition, Sheikh Hasina stated that these voices are emanating from a desperate and directionless Yunus administration. She expressed gratitude to India for the refuge and respect it has given her. She also stated that all political parties in India have supported her stance, which is encouraging. On the question of returning to Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina stated that she left the country to prevent further bloodshed. She clarified that she is not afraid to face justice.

PC:Hindinews18