Hasina's stay in India won't hurt bilateral ties: Bangladesh official
What's the story
Bangladesh has assured that its ties with India will remain unaffected despite the extended stay of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi.
This statement was made by Md Touhid Hossain, the foreign affairs adviser to the interim government in Dhaka, during a meeting with foreign diplomats on Monday.
Hossain stated that bilateral relations are a larger issue and are based on mutual interest.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Hasina's resignation came amid massive student protests in the country.
The protests, which began in July, initially demanded the abolition of civil service job quotas but have since evolved into a broader anti-government movement.
The unrest was triggered by a controversial quota system reserving up to 30% of government jobs for relatives of veterans from the 1971 independence war.
Protesters argue that this system is discriminatory and benefits former PM Hasina's Awami League party.
Bilateral relations
'Why should relations be affected if someone stays there?'
Hossain emphasized that Bangladesh will always strive to maintain good relations with India, regardless of Hasina's prolonged stay.
"Why should relations with a particular country be affected if someone stays there?" Hossain added.
Hasina, the beleaguered Awami League chief, initially sought refuge in India temporarily.
However, her stay has become extended.
His statement is seen as reassuring for India as the UK and other Western countries hesitate to offer Hasina asylum.
Political tension
BNP warns India against indefinitely hosting Hasina
To recall, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, the political rival to Hasina's party, had warned India against indefinitely hosting her.
The interim government's stance on dealing with Hasina remains unclear as it has not ruled out seeking her deportation.
Hossain had previously stated that they would follow the law ministry's advice on this matter.
Diplomatic challenge
India faces challenge in balancing ties with Hasina, BNP
India faces a challenge in balancing its relationship with Hasina and rebuilding ties with ex-Prime Minister Khaleda Zia's BNP party.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India's Ministry of External Affairs, stated that they do not have an update on Hasina's plans and it is up to her to decide her next steps.
Minority safety
Bangladesh assures safety of minority communities
During his meeting with foreign diplomats, including Indian High Commissioner Pranay Kumar Verma, Hossain reiterated that violence against any religious or ethnic group would not be tolerated.
This assurance comes as India demands safety for minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus.
In a gesture of outreach toward the minority community, Bangladesh's home adviser Sakhawat Hossain revealed that the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus, is considering declaring a three-day Durga Puja holiday for Hindus.