Exiled Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has stated that the current strain in India–Bangladesh relations is entirely the result of policies pursued by the Muhammad Yunus–led caretaker government, asserting that bilateral ties between the two countries are neither fragile nor dependent on any short-term administration.
In an email interview, Prime Minister Hasina criticized the present government for adopting a hostile posture toward India while failing to uphold fundamental responsibilities at home.
According to her, the authorities have repeatedly made antagonistic statements against India, failed to ensure the protection of religious minorities, and allowed extremist elements to influence foreign policy. “After provoking tension through such actions, the government then expresses surprise when relations deteriorate,” she said.
Sheikh Hasina emphasized that India has remained Bangladesh’s most reliable friend and strategic partner for decades. She stressed that the relationship between the two nations is rooted in history, shared sacrifices, and long-standing cooperation, rather than the actions or tenure of any particular government.
“The India–Bangladesh relationship is not short-lived or transactional,” she noted, adding that it rests on solid historical and geopolitical foundations that cannot be undermined by short-term political maneuvering.
Expressing confidence in the future, Prime Minister Hasina said that once a legitimate and responsible system of governance is in place, Bangladesh would return to a pragmatic, respectful, and mutually beneficial partnership with India—similar to the framework developed over the past fifteen years.
She concluded by reaffirming her belief that regional stability, minority rights, and principled foreign policy are essential for preserving Bangladesh’s national interests and its strategic relationships.
