India has limited its visa operations in Bangladesh, currently issuing visas only for medical and emergency purposes. Jaiswal assured that full visa operations would resume when the situation improves
India confirmed that former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina remains in the country following the collapse of her government in August, hindustantimes.com reported.
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that Hasina arrived in New Delhi on short notice for “safety reasons.” Jaiswal declined to comment on the arrest warrant issued by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal, which accused Hasina of involvement in mass killings during recent protests. However, he reiterated that Hasina continues to stay in India.
Hasina fled Bangladesh on August 5, after her administration fell under pressure from nationwide protests led by student organizations. The protests resulted in the deaths of over 600 people, including students, according to the United Nations.
Randhir Jaiswal also expressed India’s concerns over recent violence against Bangladesh’s Hindu and other minority communities, particularly during the Durga Puja celebrations. He urged the interim government to uphold its promises to protect minority rights and ensure their safety
Following her departure, a caretaker government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed power, and several members of this interim administration have called for her extradition from India, causing friction between the two nations.
On Thursday, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal issued an arrest warrant for Hasina. Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam explained that the warrant was necessary for a thorough investigation into the allegations. The court has ordered her arrest and appearance before November 18. Over 60 complaints, accusing Hasina and other Awami League leaders of crimes such as murder, enforced disappearances, and mass killings, have been filed since the fall of her government.
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