BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has stated that ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's presence in India will not act as a barrier to improving bilateral relations with Bangladesh.
He made these remarks during a recent interview with the Indian media outlet The Hindu.
The Extradition Demand
Fakhrul asserted that Sheikh Hasina has been convicted of serious human rights violations and that India should extradite her to Bangladesh.
However, he clarified that even if she is not sent back, it would not hinder the establishment of trade and other diplomatic ties. He emphasized that the BNP seeks to build a stronger relationship with its neighbor.
A New Government Takes Charge
The statements come as the BNP prepares to form a government after securing a two-thirds majority in the 13th National Parliamentary Elections. The swearing-in ceremony for the new Members of Parliament and the Cabinet took place on Tuesday.
Fakhrul noted that Sheikh Hasina, who has been in exile in India since losing power in the 2024 uprising, has been sentenced to death. He added that legal proceedings against ministers of her former government would continue.
Pragmatism Over Complexity
Despite the complexities in India-Bangladesh relations, Fakhrul argued that fields of cooperation must remain open. Drawing a parallel, he noted that even with their complicated relationship, the United States and China continue to work together.
He referenced historical precedent, pointing out that after the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, while Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana were taking refuge in India, the then-BNP leader President Ziaur Rahman visited India, and Indian PM Morarji Desai visited Dhaka.
Focus on Unresolved Issues
The BNP leader highlighted the need for dialogue on long-standing issues, including:
- The Ganges Water Sharing Treaty
- Farakka Barrage water levels
- Border killings
"There is no room for conflict with India; solutions must be found through discussion," he stated.
Vision for Governance
Fakhrul criticized the outgoing interim government for failing to achieve national reconciliation following the 2024 uprising, suggesting that the state should be governed based on consensus with rival political parties.
He mentioned that the BNP’s 31-point program would create opportunities for cooperation with India in trade, technology, education, business, and digital infrastructure.
Furthermore, he stated that the new government’s responsibilities include reducing the debt burden left by the Awami League, re-evaluating "mega projects," and maintaining only those initiatives that serve the genuine interests of Bangladesh.
