LS | EAM Minister Dr. S Jaishankar's Suo-moto statement in Lok Sabha on the situation in Bangladesh.

Summary

In this address to the Indian Parliament, the speaker discusses the escalating political and social crisis in Bangladesh following the January 2024 elections. Violent protests, fueled by deep political divides, have led to attacks on infrastructure, minorities, and government properties. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation on August 4, 2024, following intensifying unrest, has added to the uncertainty. India is closely monitoring the situation, ensuring the safety of its citizens and diplomatic missions in Bangladesh, while emphasizing the need for dialogue and peace. Border forces have been put on high alert amidst ongoing instability.

Takeaways

• 📢 India-Bangladesh relations have been very close for many decades across multiple governments.
• ⚠️ Since the election in January 2024, Bangladesh has experienced growing political tension, polarization, and student agitation.
• 🚨 Violence escalated in Bangladesh, including attacks on public buildings, infrastructure, and railways, particularly in July and August.
• 📞 India repeatedly urged restraint and called for dialogue between various political forces in Bangladesh.
• 🛑 The Supreme Court ruling on July 21 failed to ease the public agitation, and tensions continued to grow.
• 🔥 On August 4, attacks on police stations, government installations, and properties intensified, with minorities also being targeted.
• 🔒 Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina decided to resign after a meeting with security leaders and sought temporary refuge in India on August 5.
• 💬 The Army Chief of Bangladesh, General Vakaru Zaman, addressed the nation, announcing the formation of an interim government.
• 👥 India is closely monitoring the safety of the Indian community in Bangladesh, with many Indian nationals already evacuated.
• 🔎 India's border forces have been instructed to remain vigilant as the situation in Bangladesh remains volatile and evolving.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the speaker in this transcript?

The primary focus of the speaker is to update the House on recent developments in Bangladesh, particularly the political tension and violence since the January 2024 elections.

What has been the situation in Bangladesh since the January 2024 elections?

Since the January 2024 elections, Bangladesh has experienced considerable political tension, deep divides, growing polarization, and escalating violence, including student protests and attacks on public infrastructure.

What actions have been taken by the Indian government in response to the situation in Bangladesh?

The Indian government has repeatedly counseled restraint and urged for dialogue to diffuse the situation. They have also been in continuous contact with political parties and groups in Bangladesh and are monitoring the safety of Indian nationals there.

What sparked the increased violence in Bangladesh in June and July 2024?

In June and July 2024, violence escalated due to growing political unrest, with attacks on public buildings, infrastructure, and disruptions in traffic and railways, despite calls for restraint.

What was the core demand of the protesters in Bangladesh?

The core demand of the protesters was for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down from her position.

What events led Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign?

On August 4th, following intensified violence, including attacks on police stations and government properties, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina decided to resign after meeting with security leaders. She requested permission to come to India and arrived in Delhi on August 5th.

How did the Bangladesh Army respond to the situation after Sheikh Hasina's resignation?

The Bangladesh Army Chief, General Vakaru Zaman, addressed the nation on August 5th, announcing that the military had assumed responsibility and would form an interim government to stabilize the situation.

What measures has India taken to ensure the safety of its nationals in Bangladesh?

India has maintained close contact with its community in Bangladesh, advising many to return to India, especially students. Indian diplomatic missions are still functioning, and the Indian government expects the host country to provide necessary security.

How has the violence in Bangladesh affected minorities?

The violence has particularly impacted minorities in Bangladesh, with attacks on their businesses and temples. The speaker expressed concern about their safety but noted reports of local efforts to ensure their protection.

What steps have been taken by India's border security forces in light of the situation in Bangladesh?

India's border guarding forces have been instructed to be on high alert due to the complex situation in Bangladesh.