Govt will take appropriate action at the right time: Jaishankar on Bangladesh crisis

The External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar chaired an all-party meeting on Tuesday (Aug 6) to discuss the fall of Sheikh Hasina's government and the Army's takeover inBangladesh amid violent protests.

The meeting was attended by key leaders including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi, DMK leader TR Baalu, and NCP leader Supriya Sule, among others.

"It's an ongoing situation. The government will take appropriate action at the right time," Jaishankar reportedly told the MPs.

He also informed that the government is monitoring the situation and is in touch with the Bangladeshi Army - which is set to form an interim government.

The foreign minister briefed the leaders about the current situation in the violence-hit nation and the steps taken by the Indian government to address the possible security, economic, and diplomatic consequences of this situation.

Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh.

Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. pic.twitter.com/tiitk5M5zn — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024

The Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Rahul asked three key questions during the all-party meeting on the situation in Bangladesh.

According to sources, Gandhi asked what is government's short-term and long-term approach in dealing with the diplomatic consequences of the power shift in Bangladesh.

Secondly, he asked if there could be an involvement of foreign powers, specifically Pakistan, in the developments in Bangladesh and if New Delhi had foreseen the dramatic turn of events in Bangladesh.

Hasina flees to India

Sheikh Hasina on Monday (Aug5) arrived in India after fleeing her violence-hit nation. The Bangladeshi leader, who as per reports was expected to only make a pit stop in India, will stay in the nation until granted political asylum in a third country.

According to reports, Hasina is likely to leave for London later, where she may seek political asylum.

However, there is no confirmation on whether the UK has offered asylum to her.

(With inputs from agencies)