Bangladesh has formally requested clarification from India regarding its stance on the upcoming press conference of Sheikh Hasina, the deposed Prime Minister, scheduled for August 5 in New Delhi. This date marks the second anniversary of her government’s removal from power. Shama Obaed Islam, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs, expressed concerns that Hasina’s press conference could potentially impact the diplomatic relations between the two nations.

At a media briefing held on Monday, Islam stressed the importance of Dhaka and New Delhi maintaining strong bilateral ties. She conveyed that public political activities conducted from Indian territory by individuals associated with instability in Bangladesh could adversely affect relations. According to her, any activities involving “fugitives or convicted individuals” should not take place on Indian soil.

Islam made it clear that Bangladesh wishes to foster improved relations with India, stating, “We want relations with India to improve. I believe India also wants that.” These remarks underscored Dhaka’s intent to maintain a collaborative atmosphere between the two countries.

Sheikh Hasina’s Planned Participation

Sheikh Hasina, aged 78, is expected to speak at a private event hosted virtually by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia on the date in question. Reports suggest that her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, along with former education minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel and Bangladesh Human Rights Watch’s general secretary, Mahammad Ali Siddique, might also be in attendance. This participation has raised concerns in Dhaka regarding its potential ramifications on relations with India.

Humayun Kabir, an adviser on foreign affairs to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, remarked that Hasina’s address from Indian soil could create challenges for ongoing efforts to enhance bilateral relations. His statements reportedly coincided with an official visit from Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi, during which various aspects of Bangladesh-India relations were reviewed.

The Indian High Commission in Dhaka has communicated its focus on strengthening people-centric cooperation between the neighbouring nations. The High Commissioner reiterated India’s commitment to work positively with the Government of Bangladesh to advance the developmental goals of both countries.

Security Measures Ahead of August 5

In light of the upcoming events on August 5, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed announced that law enforcement and security agencies have been placed on high alert. He assured the public that measures are in place to maintain law and order across Bangladesh and ensure safety in anticipation of any potential disturbances related to the press conference.

Sheikh Hasina’s government was overthrown on August 5, 2024, following violent protests led by students, prompting her to flee to India. After her removal, the interim regime disbanded her political party, the Awami League, through an executive order enforced under an anti-terror law.

In November 2025, Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia for alleged crimes against humanity, linked to her government’s actions during the 2024 protests. She has consistently rejected these charges, labelling them as politically motivated. Following her ousting, Bangladesh has been pursuing her extradition from India, a request that has reportedly entered legal discussions in New Delhi.

As Dhaka expresses concerns about Hasina’s upcoming conference, both countries continue to articulate their mutual desire to improve relations and engage in dialogue on issues of shared interest.

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