India has reportedly lobbied the United States to adopt a more lenient approach towards Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina before her eventual ouster. This development comes amid speculations about her potential removal from power. According to a report by The Washington Post, Indian officials urged their US counterparts to reduce pressure on Sheikh Hasina, a year before she was forced to resign and flee the country.
Sheikh Hasina, aged 76, faced significant criticism from US diplomats for jailing thousands of her rivals and critics ahead of the national elections in January 2024. The US administration sanctioned a Bangladeshi police unit accused of extrajudicial kidnappings and killings under Hasina’s leadership. Additionally, there were threats of imposing visa restrictions on Bangladeshis who undermined democracy or violated human rights.
India’s Request for Moderation
Indian officials communicated to the Biden administration that pressuring Sheikh Hasina could jeopardize strategic relations. They argued that a cooperative approach was essential for maintaining stability in the region. This stance led the US to soften its criticism and put aside further sanctions against Hasina’s regime, a move that disappointed many in Bangladesh.
The report suggests that this decision was influenced by Indian lobbying efforts, including discussions during high-level meetings between Indian and US officials in November last year. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval also played a crucial role in advocating for a moderated approach towards Bangladesh during his visit to the US.
Balancing Act in Bangladesh
The situation in Bangladesh remains complex, with policymakers in New Delhi and Washington reconsidering their approach following the recent unrest. Protesters defied army-imposed curfews, leading to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India. This has prompted a reassessment of whether the situation in Bangladesh was mishandled.
US officials acknowledged the need for a balanced approach in dealing with Bangladesh, considering the intricate dynamics on the ground. The US policy aimed to strike a balance between upholding American values and pragmatically engaging with the Hasina administration.
Despite the divergent views within the Biden administration on how to handle Bangladesh, the influence of Indian lobbying appears to have played a significant role in shaping the US response. This development highlights the complexities of international diplomacy and the strategic considerations that guide such decisions.
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