Muhammad Yunus Admits Relations With India At Low

Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus who is heading the interim government in Dhaka voiced strong disapproval of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s comments made from India. Yunus argued that Hasina’s statements are worsening tensions between Bangladesh and India. 

Yunus, 84, expressed concern that Hasina's continued vocal presence from abroad is damaging diplomatic relations between the two neighboring countries. 

“Her remarks are not beneficial for either Bangladesh or India,” Yunus said. He emphasized that Bangladesh’s relationship with India has deteriorated to a “low point,” and called for Hasina to refrain from making further comments while she remains in India.

Yunus underscored that Hasina’s stay in India, following her ouster on August 5 amid student-led protests, has led to complications.

“If India wishes to keep her until Bangladesh formally requests her return, it is important that she remains silent to avoid further discomfort,” Yunus asserted. 

Yunus also referred to Hasina’s comments from August 13, where she demanded justice for violence and vandalism linked to her removal. Yunus labeled these remarks as an “unfriendly gesture” and a distraction from the need for improved bilateral relations. 

Yunus also referred to Hasina’s comments from August 13, where she demanded justice for violence and vandalism linked to her removal. Yunus labeled these remarks as an “unfriendly gesture” and a distraction from the need for improved bilateral relations.

“We need to focus on repairing our strained relationship, which is currently at low,” Yunus said. 

Yunus on violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh 

Regarding the recent incidents of violence against Hindu minorities in Bangladesh, Yunus dismissed concerns raised by India as an “excuse.” 

He suggested that the focus should be on resolving internal issues and advancing cooperative projects between the two nations.

Yunus’ comments come ahead of a scheduled high-level diplomatic meeting between Bangladesh and India, which will include discussions led by border security officials. This meeting is expected to address ongoing tensions and review collaborative initiatives.

Here’s what Sheikh Hasina said

"Since July, due to the acts of sabotage, arson, and violence carried out in the name of movement, many innocent lives have been lost. I express my condolences to the students, teachers, police officers, including a pregnant female officer, journalists, cultural workers, working people, leaders and activists of the Awami League and its affiliated organizations, pedestrians, and those working in various institutions who have died due to attacks. I pray for the forgiveness of their souls," said Sheikh Hasina in a statement released by her son.

She said that Bangladesh, which had gained recognition as a developing country across the globe, has now been "reduced to ashes". "This is an extreme dishonour to the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, under whose leadership we gained independence, self-respect, and a free country. This is an insult to the blood of millions of martyrs. I seek justice from the people of the country," it added.