No Need for Evacuation of Indians from Bangladesh: Centre

Bangladesh Situation Not Critical Enough for Evacuation of Indians: Centre’s Stand

In a recent address to Parliament, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reassured that the situation in Bangladesh, despite ongoing violence, does not necessitate the evacuation of the approximately 12,000-13,000 Indians residing there. The unrest in Bangladesh, primarily sparked by anti-government protests and a controversial quota system for government jobs, has led to significant instability, but Jaishankar emphasized that there is no immediate cause for concern regarding the safety of Indian nationals.

Overview of the Current Situation in Bangladesh

Jaishankar’s comments came during an all-party meeting where he provided an update on the evolving situation in Bangladesh. The country has experienced severe unrest following the fall of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. The protests, which have tragically resulted in over 300 deaths, have sparked international attention and concern. Despite this, the Indian government believes that the current conditions do not warrant mass evacuations.

Government’s Monitoring and Measures

The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation and has maintained communication with Bangladesh’s interim authorities. Jaishankar revealed that around 8,000 Indians, mainly students, have already returned to India due to the instability. He also mentioned that there had been discussions with Sheikh Hasina, who had resigned and fled to India. The Indian government is allowing Hasina time to contemplate her future plans before taking any further actions.

Political Reactions and Opposition Views

The all-party meeting, which included leaders from various political parties, highlighted differing perspectives on the issue. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi advocated for a comprehensive strategy to address the situation, emphasizing the need for a medium and long-term plan as Bangladesh transitions to an interim government until elections are held. The student protesters in Bangladesh have voiced their demand for Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus to assume a key advisory role in the interim government.

Anti-India Sentiment and Future Prospects

Jaishankar acknowledged the presence of anti-India sentiment in some areas of Bangladesh but reassured that any future government in Bangladesh would manage relations with India. The recent ‘India out’ campaign, which gained traction after Sheikh Hasina’s re-election, reflects a portion of Bangladeshi activists’ concerns about perceived Indian interference in their domestic affairs.

In summary, while the situation in Bangladesh remains fluid and under scrutiny, the Indian government has deemed it unnecessary to evacuate its citizens at this time. The focus is on closely monitoring developments and ensuring the safety of Indians in Bangladesh while preparing for any potential changes in the region’s political landscape.

Aakhir Tak Editor-in-Chief

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