Top News

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addressed a press conference in New Delhi via audio link on Wednesday. Hasina’s son and former advisor, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, also joined the online conference from the United States. During the conversation, Joy thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said that the Modi government has given his mother “full respect, and for that I will always be grateful.” Sajeeb Wazed Joy said that his mother is being well-cared for in India. He stated that there have been no discussions with the Dhaka government regarding Hasina’s proposed return to Bangladesh.

He said, “We are not in contact with the Bangladesh government. She is making this decision herself, regardless of the Bangladesh government’s wishes.” Joy alleged that Bangladesh has become “another Pakistan” on India’s eastern border, where foreign intelligence agencies, including the ISI, have free rein. He warned that terrorist elements are openly active. When asked about the recent visit of US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia Sergio Gor to Dhaka and his meeting with Prime Minister Tariq Rahman, Joy described it as a normal diplomatic process.

He said, “The US’s main focus right now is on increasing trade. Its focus is not on democracy and human rights, so this is part of an effort to strengthen economic and trade relations with the US.” Asked about increased engagement between Washington and Pakistan, Joy said that policies change with the arrival of new governments, and the situation was different a few years ago. He said, “These things can change very quickly.” Several senior Awami League leaders and former ministers were also present at the press conference.

Sheikh Hasina praised India, saying that India has always been “a good friend.” She added that her decision to return to Bangladesh was purely personal and that she had not consulted the Indian government. Responding to questions, Hasina said, “India has always been a good and trusted friend, and I believe it will continue to be so. I want to return to my country and my people. This is not a government decision, but my personal decision.”

Hasina said, “Anything can happen. They can even kill me. I still have to go. I only need the support of my people.” The former Bangladeshi Prime Minister reiterated her intention to return to her country sometime in December, though she did not specify a specific date or time. She said this was her personal decision and did not involve any discussions with the Indian government.

Hasina is currently living in exile in India. She was forced to leave the country in 2024 following a massive student-led protest. She was later sentenced in absentia for alleged crimes against humanity. She said, “They have destroyed all the symbols associated with our victory and liberation struggle. We have to bring them back. I want to restore that glory.” Hasina spoke via audio link from a secret location. Her picture was not displayed on the screens at the venue.