External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a crucial discussion with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy regarding the recent upheaval in Bangladesh, marked by the downfall of Sheikh Hasina’s government amid violent protests. The conversation, confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, took place as speculation swirled about Hasina’s possible request for political asylum in the UK.
Jaiswal revealed that Jaishankar and Lammy discussed the ongoing situation in Bangladesh and broader issues in West Asia. Despite these discussions, neither the Indian nor the UK government has officially addressed the rumors surrounding Hasina’s asylum request. UK Home Office sources have indicated that current immigration rules do not explicitly permit asylum requests from individuals traveling to the UK.
In a recent Parliamentary session, Jaishankar clarified that Hasina’s visit to India was approved only “for the moment,” and she is reportedly considering traveling to London to stay with her niece, Tulip Siddiq, a British MP.
Bangladesh has descended into turmoil following protests over a controversial quota system for government jobs, resulting in over 550 deaths and numerous injuries. The fall of Hasina’s administration has led to significant unrest, including looting and rioting.
Concerns have been raised about attacks on Hindu homes and temples in Bangladesh. Jaiswal assured that various groups and organizations in Bangladesh are working to protect minority communities. The MEA continues to monitor the situation closely and urges for a swift restoration of law and order, emphasizing its importance for both Bangladesh and the wider region.
Currently, around 10,000 Indians are in Bangladesh, with many seeking assistance from the Indian High Commission to return home. The High Commission in Dhaka, along with consulates in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, and Sylhet, is actively helping these individuals. The MEA is also maintaining communication with Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of Indian missions and diplomats.
