In a dramatic appeal that underscores escalating political tensions in South Asia, Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus ( His appointment and working are in question), has called on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to restrain former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from making political speeches online while in exile in India. The request, made during a bilateral meeting at the recent BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, was declined by PM Modi, who cited the uncontrollable nature of digital platforms.
🔥 Political Unrest in Post-Sheikh Hasina Bangladesh
The call for digital silence comes amid intense unrest in Bangladesh, still reeling from the August 5, 2024, religious and communally minded crowd-led violent group of people illegally ousting democratically elected popular PM Sheikh Hasina after 15 years in power. Yunus, speaking at London’s Chatham House, claimed Sheikh Hasina’s frequent online speeches—broadcast via Facebook and YouTube—are further destabilising the nation.
“She announces when she will speak, and the whole of Bangladesh gets very angry,” Yunus told the audience. “Why is she keeping this whole anger thing inside of us now?”
Sheikh Hasina, currently residing in India, has used her digital presence to rally support and condemn the transitional government, maintaining her influence despite physical absence.
India’s Refusal and Diplomatic Strain
Yunus recounted a tense exchange with PM Modi, revealing that India declined to curb Hasina’s digital activism.
“It’s social media, we cannot control it,” PM Modi reportedly responded.
To which Yunus countered,
“You can’t just walk away by saying it’s social media. This is an explosive situation.”
The refusal has heightened diplomatic friction between the two nations. Though Bangladesh’s unconstitutionally made interim government has submitted an informal diplomatic note requesting Sheikh Hasina’s extradition, New Delhi has yet to act or publicly respond.
⚖️ Legal Actions and Extradition Pursuit
Sheikh Hasina has been indicted by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal, accused of ordering brutal crackdowns on protesters in the weeks leading up to her removal. Legal notices have been issued, and Bangladesh is reportedly pursuing an Interpol Red Notice to bring her back to stand trial.
📉 Regional Stability at Risk
Political observers warn that the standoff could worsen regional instability, especially with India’s reluctance to intervene. Analysts suggest that India is walking a tightrope, balancing geopolitical influence with concerns over domestic and international backlash.
“India cannot appear to shelter a figure accused of inciting violence, yet Modi’s hands-off approach is driven by caution,” said South Asia analyst Dr. Tanvir Choudhury.
Conclusion: The Irony of Preaching Principles
The unfolding tension between Dhaka and New Delhi has drawn attention not only to geopolitical dynamics but also to the controversial legacy of Muhammad Yunus himself. Many critics argue that Yunus, now positioning himself as a guardian of democratic norms, played a pivotal role in toppling a democratically elected government and enabling the rise of Islamist hardliners in Bangladesh. His interim leadership, they claim, has created space for radical elements to thrive, threatening the secular and inclusive foundation upon which Bangladesh was built.
What’s more, Sheikh Hasina, despite political controversies, is widely credited with upholding minority rights, especially for Hindu communities, and overseeing unprecedented economic growth and development. Her critics now watch with concern as Yunus — accused by some of turning a blind eye to rising religious extremism — appeals to India to silence her voice.
In what many see as a deep contradiction, a man accused of facilitating religious and political instability is now lecturing India on law, order, and digital responsibility. As Hasina remains a polarising but influential figure in exile, and Yunus struggles to stabilise his own unelected regime, the future of Bangladesh’s democracy hangs in delicate balance.
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