Sheikh Hasina Exclusive: 'Yunus Fuelling Anti-India Sentiment In Bangladesh; Attacks On Hindus Far Worse Than Reported'

New Delhi: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister and President of the Bangladesh Awami League, Sheikh Hasina, spoke exclusively to Jagran.com on Wednesday, where she slammed the interim government and accused it of fuelling anti-India activities ahead of general elections. She claimed that the atrocities against the minority community, especially Hindus, are far worse than what has been reported and projected by the interim government.

Sheikh Hasina breaks silence on attacks on Hindus

Speaking to Jagran.com, Hasina accused Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of allowing extremist groups to operate with total impunity and perpetrate unspeakable atrocities against non-Muslims. Hasina dubbed the recent attacks on Hindus as "horrific and shameful" and asserted that the Yunus government is dividing the country in the name of religion.

Attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh

Her statement came amid a surge in attacks on Hindus ever since Hasina’s dramatic ouster in August 2024. In recent weeks, the country has witnessed a sharp uptick in attacks on Hindus. At least six Hindu men were chased to death or shot at close range in the past 20 days. The most horrific incident was the mob lynching of Deepu Chandra Das, who was dragged out of a garment factory, tied naked to a tree, and then set on fire. According to local media reports, the mob accused him of blasphemy— a claim later refuted by the administration.

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Rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh

Regarding anti-India sentiments in Bangladesh, Hasina launched a scathing attack on the Yunus government and alleged that his administration is giving a safe haven to those involved in attacks on Indian missions in Dhaka. Hasina hailed relations with New Delhi and added that these incidents would not hamper the strong ties built over decades. "India is our closest neighbour and most important strategic partner. The trust built over decades cannot be weakened by any interim government," Hasina told Jagran.com.

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“When a government does not have a legitimate mandate, even ordinary law-and-order problems turn into national crises. The interim government could neither inspire confidence in the people nor ensure a fair and swift investigation. As a result, suspicion, anger, and violence kept escalating,” said Hasina in an exclusive conversation with Jagran.com.

Hasina speaks about Hadi's killing

It is worth noting that Bangladesh is scheduled to hold general elections on February 12; however, Hasina’s Awami League is not allowed to participate in the polls amid sanctions. Raising concerns over political killings, Hasina referred to the death of radical leader Osman Hadi and alleged that the incumbent government has failed to protect its citizens. She said the current situation stems from electoral rivalry between the BNP, Jamaat, and NCP. “The government's response worsened the situation instead of handling it,” she added.