Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina has broken her silence from India to offer an extensive telephonic account regarding the ongoing political developments in Dhaka. Navigating severe political volatility and over 600 legal cases registered against her, the exiled leader announced her firm commitment to return to Bangladesh by December. She explicitly clarified that her return will not be dependent on any extradition agreement or legal proceedings between India and Bangladesh, emphasizing that she will step foot on her home soil independently. Delivering a blistering critique of the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus, she accused current authorities of misusing the judicial system for political revenge, while expressing deep alarm over rising violence, minority safety, escalating extremism, and severe economic hardship.
Plans for Return to Bangladesh by December and Rejection of Extradition
Outlining her roadmap for returning home, Sheikh Hasina stated that she has finalized her decision to travel back to Bangladesh by December. However, considering security dynamics and evolving political conditions, she will announce the precise date, time, and entry point at a later stage. She emphasized that the ongoing political crisis and state of uncertainty in Bangladesh cannot continue indefinitely. Reaffirming her motivations, she noted that her return is not driven by an ambition to reclaim power, but rather to stand alongside the people of Bangladesh during this critical period.
Regarding the return of other Awami League leaders and cadres currently facing displacement, she mentioned that decisions will be made collectively at the party level after thoroughly assessing safety conditions on the ground. She strongly rejected the idea that she requires formal permission from any authority to enter her own country, despite ongoing extradition discussions between Dhaka and New Delhi. Asserting her fundamental rights, she stated that she cannot spend her entire life in exile abroad and belongs among her fellow citizens.
Allegations of Political Retaliation and Over 600 Cases
Criticizing the legal actions initiated by the interim regime, Sheikh Hasina claimed that more than 600 cases have been fabricated against her as part of a systematic campaign. She alleged that law enforcement agencies and judicial institutions are being utilized to eliminate political opposition, undermining foundational democratic principles. Reflecting on her long political journey, she remarked that threats and legal obstacles have never deterred her resolve.
Recalling past attempts on her life, she specifically referenced the horrific 21 August 2004 grenade attack targeting her rally. That tragic incident claimed 24 lives and left over 300 individuals injured. Sheikh Hasina asserted that having survived such a devastating assassination attempt, current threats and legal cases will not dictate her path forward, as she remains unfazed by intimidation.
Scathing Critique of the $2.3 Billion Chinese Fighter Jet Deal Amid Economic Distress
Highlighting the severe economic difficulties confronting Bangladesh, the former prime minister voiced strong objections to the proposed $2.3 billion contract to purchase fighter jets from China. She pointed out that ordinary citizens are enduring acute shortages of electricity and natural gas, which have paralyzed daily life and industrial output. Due to gas supply constraints, five out of six major fertilizer manufacturing plants in the country have been forced to shut down. In an environment marked by skyrocketing inflation and commodity prices, spending vast resources on military aircraft is fundamentally misaligned with national needs.
Questioning the administration's priorities, she asked why billions are being spent on expensive fighter jets when the public faces food insecurity and basic shortages. Contrasting the situation with her tenure, she highlighted that power generation capacity had been expanded to nearly 29,000 MW, extending electricity coverage to every household across Bangladesh. Under her leadership, the country achieved significant growth in national economy and per capita income, progress that has now stalled under current governance.
Opposing the Ban on Awami League and Upholding Democratic Rights
Addressing proposals to ban the Awami League from political participation, Sheikh Hasina strongly opposed any such administrative action. She argued that the future and legitimacy of any political party must be determined solely by voters through democratic elections. If a political entity has committed errors, the verdict belongs to the electorate, whereas banning a political party directly infringes upon the democratic rights of the public.
She emphasized that the Awami League remains deeply rooted among the populace and its political presence cannot be erased by executive decree. Furthermore, she criticized the actions of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islami, and groups aligned with Muhammad Yunus. She reminded that her administration maintained a foreign policy grounded in friendly ties with neighboring countries, advancing economic growth through cooperative relationships with nations including India.
Warning Against Extremism and the 'Second Pakistan' Trajectory
Addressing the rise of radicalism, Sheikh Hasina endorsed the warning issued by her son, Sajeeb Wazed, regarding Bangladesh potentially turning into a 'second Pakistan'. She clarified that this was not merely an emotional remark, but a reflection of deteriorating ground realities. The comparison does not target ordinary citizens of Pakistan, but refers to the dangerous convergence of religious extremism, sectarian politics, militant networks, and compromised state institutions.
She expressed grave concern over extremist groups regaining operational space across Bangladesh. Recent months have witnessed attacks on religious shrines, Sufi dargahs, statues, and cultural symbols. Concurrently, anti-terrorism institutions and security mechanisms are being weakened, posing a severe threat to national security and internal stability.
Gratitude Towards India and Monitoring Bangladesh Developments
Discussing her stay in India, Sheikh Hasina shared that despite her physical distance, her attention remains constantly fixed on the unfolding situation in Bangladesh. She maintains regular communication with party leadership and grassroots workers. She acknowledged that staying away from one's homeland and people is a painful experience for any leader.
She expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Government of India and the Indian people for providing hospitality, dignity, and respect during this challenging phase. While appreciative of the support received in India, she stated that she misses the people of Bangladesh immensely and remains dedicated to returning to fight for their rights.
