Jaishankar Informs All-Party Meeting That India Has Promised Sheikh Hasina Full Support, Emphasizes Protection of Minorities in Bangladesh

New Delhi [India], August 6 : External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is set to address both houses of Parliament on Tuesday regarding the situation in Bangladesh. He will first speak to the Rajya Sabha at 2:30 pm, followed by an address to the Lok Sabha at 3:30 pm.

Earlier, Jaishankar briefed an all-party meeting on the current situation in Bangladesh, informing members that Sheikh Hasina had relocated to India and that India has pledged its full support to the Bangladeshi leader. He mentioned that the Indian government is awaiting further details from Sheikh Hasina about her future plans.

In a statement on X, Jaishankar noted, "Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended."

During the meeting, Jaishankar also revealed that the central government is in communication with the Bangladesh Army. He emphasized that the situation is evolving, and the government will act appropriately when the time is right.

Sources indicated that there are approximately 20,000 Indian nationals currently in Bangladesh, with 8,000 having already returned. Jaishankar assured that the Indian government remains in contact with its citizens there and that the High Commission continues to function.

The meeting also focused on the protection of minorities, with Jaishankar highlighting this as a key priority. Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, inquired about both short-term and long-term strategies, to which the government responded that the situation is dynamic and will be continuously assessed.

Rahul Gandhi also questioned the potential involvement of external forces, and the government affirmed that all possible angles are being investigated. After the briefing, Rahul Gandhi expressed support for the government's measures, emphasizing national interest.

Bangladesh is currently experiencing significant political unrest following Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid widespread protests, primarily led by students advocating for the abolition of a government job quota system. In Dhaka, leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have proposed an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus to address the country's challenges.

Sheikh Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening after her resignation. It remains uncertain whether she will stay in Delhi or relocate elsewhere in the future.