India and Bangladesh as close-door neighbors share a historical and geographical tie that needs a stable and respectful bilateral relationship for the prosperity of both nations. Such a relationship, however, cannot flourish without mutual respect, equality, and sensitivity to each other's national interests and democratic aspirations. India must therefore rethink its current approach toward former fascist Awami League chief Sheikh Hasina, a convicted killer who was sentenced to death by a court in Bangladesh, and demonstrate greater respect for the sentiments of the people of Bangladesh.
The continued presence of Sheikh Hasina in India has become a matter of growing concern in Bangladesh. The Bangladeshi government has repeatedly conveyed its position through diplomatic channels, expressing unease over political activities of Sheikh Hasina Indian territory. Regardless of differing political perspectives, it is evident that this issue has become a significant source of tension between the two neighbours.
The principle at stake extends beyond the personality of any individual politician. It concerns respect for sovereignty and non-interference. Countries generally expect that their neighbours will not permit their territory to be used for activities perceived as hostile to another state's internal affairs. This expectation applies equally to all nations. If the situation was reversed and a convicted political figure from India was residing in Bangladesh while making public political statements against the Indian government, New Delhi would likely expect Dhaka to address the matter responsibly. The same standard should guide India's policy toward Bangladesh.
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Thursday rightly said that India needs to decide whether it will continue to allow convicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Awami League leaders to carry out conspiratorial activities from Indian territory.
“If the autocratic, fascist, convicted Awami League leaders and the head of the Awami League, sitting on Indian soil, continue to carry out such conspiratorial activities, and if the Indian government does not stop it right now, then it will certainly create a cause for concern for the people of Bangladesh,” she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the evening.
“India needs to be more sensitive in that area and take a very intelligent decision about what it wants to do in the future,” she said. Shama expressed hope for healthy bilateral ties based on equality and mutual respect.
“India is a democratic country. India itself has to decide what its foreign policy regarding Bangladesh will be. We want good relations, in the interest of the people of both countries. But the relationship has to be based on equality, with mutual respect and dignity. If India understands that, it will be good for everyone,” Shama Obaed said.
Referring to Sheikh Hasina, Shama Obaed said, “When a convicted criminal sits on Indian soil and says such things, and the Indian government allows it, then, of course, there is concern for Bangladesh and the people of Bangladesh about where our relationship will stand in the future.”
Shama Obaed said the people of Bangladesh remain united against any return of what she termed fascism.
We fully support the Bangladesh government`s stance on the issue of India allowing convicted killer Sheikh Hasina.
Bangladesh and India have numerous shared priorities that deserve far greater attention than political controversies. Water sharing, border management, trade, energy cooperation, regional connectivity, climate resilience, and security cooperation are all issues that directly affect the lives of millions of people in both countries. Progress on these fronts requires an atmosphere of confidence rather than suspicion.
India, as one of Bangladesh's closest neighbours and a regional partner, has an opportunity to reinforce confidence by demonstrating that it respects Bangladesh's sovereignty and listens carefully to the concerns expressed by its elected government.
Strong neighbourhood relations are sustained not by rhetoric but by mutual trust and equal treatment. Policies perceived as inconsistent or selective inevitably weaken public confidence and make diplomatic engagement more difficult. Lasting friendship between neighbouring countries depends on transparency, reciprocity, and respect for each other's democratic choices.
