NEW DELHI: The Modi government has convened an all-party meeting today to deliberate on the recent fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in Bangladesh amid widespread violent protests. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the unfolding situation by Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. As of now, there is no confirmation on whether PM Modi will meet Ms Hasina, who resigned yesterday and fled the country as massive crowds of protesters demanded her departure. Following her resignation, India has granted her an interim stay, during which it will provide logistical support as she seeks asylum in the UK, according to media reports.
Following the overthrow of Sheikh Hasina’s administration by violent demonstrators, minorities in Bangladesh are facing vicious and violent attacks. Bangladeshi newspaper, The Daily Star, reported that Hindu homes, temples and businesses were attacked and destroyed by violent mobs, and their valuables were looted in at least 27 districts in Bangladesh yesterday.
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The situation in Bangladesh escalated on Tuesday as Prime Minister Hasina fled in a military aircraft, and the army intervened to address the power vacuum. The protests, which have claimed over 300 lives, prompted this military response. President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced on Monday that an interim government would be formed by dissolving the parliament. He also ordered the release of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who has been under house arrest following her conviction in multiple cases.
President Shahabuddin’s comments came during a meeting with political leaders and civil society representatives, attended by the chiefs of the three military branches. He stated that the army would take necessary measures to stabilize the situation.
Meanwhile, West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose assured that India’s border with Bangladesh remains secure amid the turmoil. He urged the public to ignore rumours and trust the measures taken by the government to safeguard the borders. A “watchdog panel” has been established to address any misinformation and ensure public reassurance.
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According to a White House National Security Council spokesperson, the United States is closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh and has urged that any interim government formed in the wake of Hasina’s resignation be democratic and inclusive.
Amidst the escalating civil unrest in the country, the Bangladesh army declared that the curfew imposed during the unrest would end at dawn on Tuesday, and schools and businesses are set to reopen, signaling a return to normalcy.