In an exclusive interview, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has issued a powerful statement from exile, declaring: "I want to return to my homeland." Addressing her planned December return to Dhaka, the 78-year-old leader stated that her decision is driven by a duty to stand alongside the people of Bangladesh amid an escalating political, economic, and security crisis.  

'I want to return to my homeland': Sheikh Hasina exclusive 

Far from Dhaka, Sheikh Hasina describes a quieter routine than the one that defined fifteen years in power: newspapers from home, political briefings, and long hours with the books her father left behind. In a written interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, the former Bangladesh prime minister said life away from the country ‘is never easy’ and that Bangladesh is in her thoughts ‘every moment’. She follows Bangladeshi and international media, economic reports and analysis, and stays in contact with people who, she says, know the situation on the ground.&nbsp;Reading, she insisted, is not an escape. Among the books closest to her are Bangabandhur Osomapto Attojiboni&nbsp;, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s unfinished autobiography, and Karagarer Rojnamcha, his prison diaries. “These writings are not only personal documents,” she said. “They are records of struggle, sacrifice, patience and faith in the people. They remind us why Bangladesh was created.” The interview also returns to a private geography of grief. After the 1975 assassination of her father and most of her family, India gave her “safety, shelter and human kindness”. Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi, she said, has “a very special place” in her memory. She goes there, when she does, “as a human being, as a daughter who lost her family, and as someone who seeks strength through prayer”, not for politics. Asked whether she would visit the shrine again before any homecoming, she offered no comment.&nbsp;The former Bangladesh PM plans to return to her country in December, as she has a ‘responsibility to my people and to millions of Awami League supporters who have been deprived of their political voice’.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: You are planning a political comeback from exile. How will it happen? Is December confirmed, that you will be back in your country?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: Bangladesh is passing through a grave national crisis. Democratic space has been closed. The judiciary is being used for political revenge. Media freedom has been restricted. Law and order have weakened. Minorities feel unsafe. Extremist forces have regained space. The economy has suffered. Factories have closed, unemployment has risen, investment has fallen, prices are hurting ordinary families, and electricity and gas shortages have returned. I do not see my return as a personal political comeback. I see it as part of a larger struggle to restore democracy, constitutional government, and the right of the people of Bangladesh to choose their government freely. My intention is clear. I want to return to my homeland because I have a responsibility to my people and to millions of Awami League supporters who have been deprived of their political voice. But we are not yet at the stage of announcing a specific date, time, or point of entry. Such a decision is not only political. It also involves security, organisation, and the safety of people on the ground.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: If you go back, do you think your life will be under threat?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: Yes, I am aware of the risk. But threats to my life are not new. In 1975, I lost my father, my mother, my brothers, and almost my entire family. I survived only because I was abroad. After returning to Bangladesh, I faced military rule, dictatorship, conspiracies, imprisonment, and repeated assassination attempts. There have been at least 19 attempts on my life. The most brutal was the grenade attack on 21 August 2004. It was carried out in broad daylight at my public rally when I was Leader of the Opposition. Twenty-four people were killed and more than three hundred were injured. I myself was injured and lost hearing in one ear. My party leaders and workers formed a human shield around me. Many of them sacrificed their lives to save mine. So personal danger is not new to me. If I had thought only about my own safety, I would never have entered politics. I would never have returned to Bangladesh. I would never have fought dictatorship, terrorism, and conspiracy. But today my concern is not only about myself. I am concerned about ordinary Awami League leaders and workers, journalists, intellectuals, minorities, women, students, cultural activists, and every citizen who is being punished because of political belief. But fear cannot decide my duty. My life has long moved beyond calculations of personal safety. My responsibility is to Bangladesh and to its people.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: You are in India now. How do you spend your time? Do you read books? Any specific books?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: Life away from one’s own country is never easy. Bangladesh is in my thoughts every moment. I follow developments in Bangladesh closely. I read Bangladeshi newspapers, international media, reports, political analysis and economic updates. I remain in contact with people who know the situation on the ground. I also spend time reading. I read history, politics, economics, international affairs and books related to Bangladesh’s Liberation War and democratic struggle. I often return to the writings and speeches of Bangabandhu because his vision for Bangladesh continues to guide me. Among the books closest to me are Bangabandhur Osomapto Attojiboni and Karagarer Rojnamcha. I also read the diaries of the Father of the Nation. These writings are not only personal documents. They are records of struggle, sacrifice, patience and faith in the people. They remind us why Bangladesh was created and what kind of country Bangabandhu wanted to build. For me, reading is not an escape from politics. It is part of preparation. Bangladesh is passing through a very difficult period, and I spend much of my time thinking about how the country can be rescued from political revenge, economic decline, institutional breakdown and extremism.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: Since historic Nizamuddin Dargah has had a historic connection with your family, and it was here you went before going back to Bangladesh in the 1980s, do you visit that place?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: Nizamuddin Dargah has a very special place in my memory and in my family’s history. My relationship with India is not only political. India has been connected with some of the most painful and important moments of my life. After the assassination of my father and most of my family in 1975, India gave me safety, shelter and human kindness at a time of unimaginable grief. I will always remember the compassion of the Indian people during that dark period. Places like Nizamuddin carry spiritual and historical meaning. They are places of prayer, reflection, humility and remembrance. When I visit such a place, I do not go there for politics. I go there as a human being, as a daughter who lost her family, and as someone who seeks strength through prayer. These memories are deeply personal to me.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: And will you go to Nizamuddin Dargah before coming back to Bangladesh in December?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: I have no comment on this at this stage.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: How do you think history will remember you?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: I hope history will remember one simple truth: I believed in the capacity of the people of Bangladesh, and I worked to prove what Bangladesh can achieve. During my five terms as Prime Minister, my central goal was always the welfare of ordinary people. After the 2008 election, during nearly sixteen consecutive years in government, we placed Bangladesh on a strong foundation through long-term planning, disciplined implementation, and people-oriented development. We raised the economy from about 70 billion dollars to about 450 billion dollars. Per capita income increased from 482 dollars to 2,784 dollars. Poverty declined from 41 percent to 18.7 percent, and extreme poverty declined from 25.1 percent to 5.6 percent. Bangladesh achieved developing country status and became recognised as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. We brought electricity to every citizen. Power generation capacity rose from 3,782 megawatts to more than 28,000 megawatts. We built the Padma Bridge with our own resources. We built Metro Rail, Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, Matarbari Deep Sea Port, Karnaphuli Tunnel, expressways, Digital Bangladesh, and Bangabandhu Satellite. We established nearly 15,000 community clinics to bring healthcare to people’s doorsteps. We reduced maternal and child mortality. We expanded education, women’s participation, social safety nets, housing for landless families, and support for the poor. We introduced 145 social safety net programmes and brought millions of people under different allowance schemes. We also fought terrorism with zero tolerance. We modernised law enforcement, built counterterrorism capacity, and proved that a Muslim-majority country can fight militancy while protecting faith, secularism, democracy, and pluralism. No government is perfect. My government was not perfect either. There were criticisms and mistakes, and history will judge all of them. But no one can deny that Bangladesh changed. No one can deny that the lives of ordinary people improved. My father believed in the capacity of the Bengali nation. I also believed in my people. We showed the world: yes, Bangladesh can. If Bangladesh becomes a prosperous, democratic, peaceful, secular, and inclusive country, that will be the greatest legacy I could hope for.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: Do you think the Awami League enjoys support in the country?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: Absolutely. The Awami League remains the strongest political force in Bangladesh. It is a historic political organisation rooted in the Language Movement, the Liberation War, and every democratic struggle of Bangladesh. Under the leadership of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, this party led the birth of Bangladesh. No ban, false case, death sentence, or political conspiracy can erase it from the hearts of the people. It is rooted in every village, every ward, every union, every district, and every community of Bangladesh. Those who are now occupying power know this very well. That is why they barred the Awami League from political activities. That is why they kept us out of the election. They did not defeat the Awami League at the ballot box. They removed the Awami League before the people could speak. Information from Bangladesh’s own intelligence sources showed that if the Awami League had been allowed to contest the last election, we would have received around 63 percent of the vote. That is why they were afraid. That is why they imposed restrictions, filed false cases, shut down our activities, and staged an election without us. But banning a party does not remove its supporters. Closing party offices does not erase people’s memory. Filing cases does not change people’s experience. People know how to compare. They know what Bangladesh was under the Awami League and what Bangladesh has become now. Under the Awami League, there was stability, development, electricity, infrastructure, investment, security, and hope. Now there is fear, unemployment, price rise, terrorism, minority persecution, and institutional collapse. Whenever there is a free, fair, and inclusive election, the Awami League will win an overwhelming majority. I have no doubt about that.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: Who do you think was responsible for the political upheaval in your country in August 2024?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: The events of July and August 2024 cannot be explained simply as a spontaneous student movement. That is an incomplete and misleading picture. At the beginning, there were students with concerns about the quota issue. I have never said that young people should not express their views. My government had already abolished the quota system in 2018. When the High Court later annulled that decision in 2024, my government appealed. We invited students for dialogue. Ministers spoke with them. We accepted reasonable demands. We chose legal process, political engagement, and patience. But what began around a student demand was quickly hijacked by forces whose objective was not quota reform. Their objective was to overthrow an elected Awami League government through street violence and chaos. Muhammad Yunus himself later described the movement as “meticulously designed.” That statement alone shows this was not a simple spontaneous protest. The first death was Sabuj Ali, a Dhaka College activist of Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the Awami League, who was killed on 16 July. After that, violence was deliberately escalated. Government offices were attacked. Public infrastructure was destroyed. Metro Rail was attacked. Police stations were burned. Weapons were looted. Law enforcement officers were killed, tortured, and even hanged from flyovers. Prisons were attacked and militants escaped. Several forces were responsible: opposition political actors, radical groups, militant elements, and those who wanted to use student emotion as a cover for power seizure. I have also said before that questions about external involvement must be investigated carefully with evidence. But one thing is clear: this was not an ordinary protest movement. It was a coordinated political operation. My government had a responsibility to maintain law and order and protect lives, public property, state institutions, and ordinary citizens. In any country, when police stations are burned, officers are killed, prisons are attacked and weapons are looted, law enforcement must respond according to the situation and within the law. Every loss of life is tragic. That is why, while I was still in office, I formed a Judicial Inquiry Commission on 18 July 2024 headed by Justice Khondker Diliruzzaman of the High Court Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. On 1 August, I expanded it into a three-member commission by adding Justice K.M. Zahid Sarwar and Justice Mohammad Showkat Ali Chowdhury. I wanted the truth to come out. But after 5 August, the illegal interim government stopped that inquiry, gave indemnity to those involved in the violence, and used fabricated narratives to criminalise the Awami League. That tells you who wanted truth and who wanted political revenge. The responsibility for August 2024 lies with those who transformed a student issue into violent regime change, those who planned it, financed it, encouraged it, protected it, and later used it to seize power. Bangladesh needs justice, but justice must come through a credible, independent investigation, not through propaganda and kangaroo trials.<h3>Sidhant Sibal: How do you think history will remember Yunus?</h3>Sheikh Hasina: Power exposed the difference between Muhammad Yunus’s international image and what he did to Bangladesh. After grabbing power through a meticulously designed movement, he did not try to heal Bangladesh. He did not restore democracy. He did not protect citizens. He unleashed mob violence, protected violent actors, and turned revenge into state policy. First, he destroyed Bangladesh’s political culture. Politics became a matter of banning opponents, filing false cases, using the judiciary as a weapon, staging trials, and silencing millions of citizens. The Awami League, the party that led Bangladesh’s Liberation War, was criminalised. Its leaders and workers were killed, jailed, driven into hiding, or buried under fabricated cases. Second, he attacked the history and identity of Bangladesh. Under his watch, the symbols of the Liberation War were destroyed. Freedom fighters were humiliated. The memory of Bangabandhu was targeted. Dhanmondi 32, the historic residence of the Father of the Nation, was attacked and demolished in phases. He spoke of pressing a “reset button.” In reality, that meant trying to erase the Liberation War, erase Bangabandhu, and erase the secular foundation of Bangladesh. Third, he destroyed institutions. Judges were forced to resign under mob pressure. Courts became instruments of revenge. The administration was politicised. Law enforcement was weakened. Media freedom was crushed. Cultural institutions were attacked. Minorities were left exposed. A country we built on secularism and equal citizenship was pushed toward fear and communal politics. Fourth, he opened the door to extremism. Convicted and accused militants were released or allowed to escape. Banned organisations began operating openly. Terrorists who had been kept under control during my government found space again.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the same time, law enforcement and intelligence officers who fought terrorism were dismissed, jailed, or harassed. Those who protected Bangladesh from terrorism were punished, and those linked to extremism were rewarded. Fifth, his mismanagement damaged public health and cost innocent children their lives. We had almost brought measles to the point of elimination. Our vaccination programme was a global model. But under his administration, vaccine procurement was disrupted, warnings were ignored, and the health system was neglected. More than a thousand children died from a preventable disease because of his administrative failure. That is not an accident. That is a crime against the people. Sixth, he used power for personal protection and institutional benefit. After he came to power, cases against him were removed one after another: his labour conviction, labour-law cases, Anti-Corruption Commission case, personal tax cases, and tax cases involving his Grameen network. Grameen Kalyan’s BDT 666 crore tax liability was removed. Grameen Bank received a five-year tax exemption. The government stake in Grameen Bank was cut from 25 percent to 10 percent, weakening public oversight. Approvals and privileges were rushed for Yunus-linked institutions, including a hospital and medical college project, Grameen University, a digital wallet licence, and manpower export authorisation. His associates and network were placed in sensitive positions. So, what was his so-called revolution? It was not for the people. It was for power, protection, and personal benefit. Look at Bangladesh today. The economy has weakened. Investment has fallen. Factories have closed. Jobs have disappeared. Prices have risen. Law and order have collapsed. Women and children are unsafe. Minorities live in fear. Terror networks are reappearing. The development journey of Bangladesh has been derailed. History will not judge him by his Nobel Prize alone. History will judge him by what he did when he held power. And I believe history will remember Muhammad Yunus as a man who created a fake image of peace abroad but destroyed peace at home; a man who spoke of empowering the poor but used power to protect himself; a man who claimed moral authority but presided over revenge, mob violence, institutional destruction, extremism, and the deaths of children. In the end, people will remember him as a selfish power monger who destroyed a peaceful, rising Bangladesh through meticulous design for his own benefit. Bangladesh will recover. The people will recover their country. But the damage he has done will remain a dark chapter in our history.

 In a written interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, the former Bangladesh prime minister said life away from the country ‘is never easy’ and that Bangladesh is in her thoughts ‘every moment’

Far from Dhaka, Sheikh Hasina describes a quieter routine than the one that defined fifteen years in power: newspapers from home, political briefings, and long hours with the books her father left behind. In a written interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, the former Bangladesh prime minister said life away from the country ‘is never easy’ and that Bangladesh is in her thoughts ‘every moment’. She follows Bangladeshi and international media, economic reports and analysis, and stays in contact with people who, she says, know the situation on the ground. Reading, she insisted, is not an escape. Among the books closest to her are Bangabandhur Osomapto Attojiboni , Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s unfinished autobiography, and Karagarer Rojnamcha, his prison diaries. “These writings are not only personal documents,” she said. “They are records of struggle, sacrifice, patience and faith in the people. They remind us why Bangladesh was created.” The interview also returns to a private geography of grief. After the 1975 assassination of her father and most of her family, India gave her “safety, shelter and human kindness”. Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi, she said, has “a very special place” in her memory. She goes there, when she does, “as a human being, as a daughter who lost her family, and as someone who seeks strength through prayer”, not for politics. Asked whether she would visit the shrine again before any homecoming, she offered no comment. The former Bangladesh PM plans to return to her country in December, as she has a ‘responsibility to my people and to millions of Awami League supporters who have been deprived of their political voice’. Sidhant Sibal: You are planning a political comeback from exile. How will it happen? Is December confirmed, that you will be back in your country? Sheikh Hasina: Bangladesh is passing through a grave national crisis. Democratic space has been closed. The judiciary is being used for political revenge. Media freedom has been restricted. Law and order have weakened. Minorities feel unsafe. Extremist forces have regained space. The economy has suffered. Factories have closed, unemployment has risen, investment has fallen, prices are hurting ordinary families, and electricity and gas shortages have returned. I do not see my return as a personal political comeback. I see it as part of a larger struggle to restore democracy, constitutional government, and the right of the people of Bangladesh to choose their government freely. My intention is clear. I want to return to my homeland because I have a responsibility to my people and to millions of Awami League supporters who have been deprived of their political voice. But we are not yet at the stage of announcing a specific date, time, or point of entry. Such a decision is not only political. It also involves security, organisation, and the safety of people on the ground. Sidhant Sibal: If you go back, do you think your life will be under threat? Sheikh Hasina: Yes, I am aware of the risk. But threats to my life are not new. In 1975, I lost my father, my mother, my brothers, and almost my entire family. I survived only because I was abroad. After returning to Bangladesh, I faced military rule, dictatorship, conspiracies, imprisonment, and repeated assassination attempts. There have been at least 19 attempts on my life. The most brutal was the grenade attack on 21 August 2004. It was carried out in broad daylight at my public rally when I was Leader of the Opposition. Twenty-four people were killed and more than three hundred were injured. I myself was injured and lost hearing in one ear. My party leaders and workers formed a human shield around me. Many of them sacrificed their lives to save mine. So personal danger is not new to me. If I had thought only about my own safety, I would never have entered politics. I would never have returned to Bangladesh. I would never have fought dictatorship, terrorism, and conspiracy. But today my concern is not only about myself. I am concerned about ordinary Awami League leaders and workers, journalists, intellectuals, minorities, women, students, cultural activists, and every citizen who is being punished because of political belief. But fear cannot decide my duty. My life has long moved beyond calculations of personal safety. My responsibility is to Bangladesh and to its people. Sidhant Sibal: You are in India now. How do you spend your time? Do you read books? Any specific books? Sheikh Hasina: Life away from one’s own country is never easy. Bangladesh is in my thoughts every moment. I follow developments in Bangladesh closely. I read Bangladeshi newspapers, international media, reports, political analysis and economic updates. I remain in contact with people who know the situation on the ground. I also spend time reading. I read history, politics, economics, international affairs and books related to Bangladesh’s Liberation War and democratic struggle. I often return to the writings and speeches of Bangabandhu because his vision for Bangladesh continues to guide me. Among the books closest to me are Bangabandhur Osomapto Attojiboni and Karagarer Rojnamcha. I also read the diaries of the Father of the Nation. These writings are not only personal documents. They are records of struggle, sacrifice, patience and faith in the people. They remind us why Bangladesh was created and what kind of country Bangabandhu wanted to build. For me, reading is not an escape from politics. It is part of preparation. Bangladesh is passing through a very difficult period, and I spend much of my time thinking about how the country can be rescued from political revenge, economic decline, institutional breakdown and extremism. Sidhant Sibal: Since historic Nizamuddin Dargah has had a historic connection with your family, and it was here you went before going back to Bangladesh in the 1980s, do you visit that place? Sheikh Hasina: Nizamuddin Dargah has a very special place in my memory and in my family’s history. My relationship with India is not only political. India has been connected with some of the most painful and important moments of my life. After the assassination of my father and most of my family in 1975, India gave me safety, shelter and human kindness at a time of unimaginable grief. I will always remember the compassion of the Indian people during that dark period. Places like Nizamuddin carry spiritual and historical meaning. They are places of prayer, reflection, humility and remembrance. When I visit such a place, I do not go there for politics. I go there as a human being, as a daughter who lost her family, and as someone who seeks strength through prayer. These memories are deeply personal to me. Sidhant Sibal: And will you go to Nizamuddin Dargah before coming back to Bangladesh in December? Sheikh Hasina: I have no comment on this at this stage. Sidhant Sibal: How do you think history will remember you? Sheikh Hasina: I hope history will remember one simple truth: I believed in the capacity of the people of Bangladesh, and I worked to prove what Bangladesh can achieve. During my five terms as Prime Minister, my central goal was always the welfare of ordinary people. After the 2008 election, during nearly sixteen consecutive years in government, we placed Bangladesh on a strong foundation through long-term planning, disciplined implementation, and people-oriented development. We raised the economy from about 70 billion dollars to about 450 billion dollars. Per capita income increased from 482 dollars to 2,784 dollars. Poverty declined from 41 percent to 18.7 percent, and extreme poverty declined from 25.1 percent to 5.6 percent. Bangladesh achieved developing country status and became recognised as one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. We brought electricity to every citizen. Power generation capacity rose from 3,782 megawatts to more than 28,000 megawatts. We built the Padma Bridge with our own resources. We built Metro Rail, Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, Matarbari Deep Sea Port, Karnaphuli Tunnel, expressways, Digital Bangladesh, and Bangabandhu Satellite. We established nearly 15,000 community clinics to bring healthcare to people’s doorsteps. We reduced maternal and child mortality. We expanded education, women’s participation, social safety nets, housing for landless families, and support for the poor. We introduced 145 social safety net programmes and brought millions of people under different allowance schemes. We also fought terrorism with zero tolerance. We modernised law enforcement, built counterterrorism capacity, and proved that a Muslim-majority country can fight militancy while protecting faith, secularism, democracy, and pluralism. No government is perfect. My government was not perfect either. There were criticisms and mistakes, and history will judge all of them. But no one can deny that Bangladesh changed. No one can deny that the lives of ordinary people improved. My father believed in the capacity of the Bengali nation. I also believed in my people. We showed the world: yes, Bangladesh can. If Bangladesh becomes a prosperous, democratic, peaceful, secular, and inclusive country, that will be the greatest legacy I could hope for. Sidhant Sibal: Do you think the Awami League enjoys support in the country? Sheikh Hasina: Absolutely. The Awami League remains the strongest political force in Bangladesh. It is a historic political organisation rooted in the Language Movement, the Liberation War, and every democratic struggle of Bangladesh. Under the leadership of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, this party led the birth of Bangladesh. No ban, false case, death sentence, or political conspiracy can erase it from the hearts of the people. It is rooted in every village, every ward, every union, every district, and every community of Bangladesh. Those who are now occupying power know this very well. That is why they barred the Awami League from political activities. That is why they kept us out of the election. They did not defeat the Awami League at the ballot box. They removed the Awami League before the people could speak. Information from Bangladesh’s own intelligence sources showed that if the Awami League had been allowed to contest the last election, we would have received around 63 percent of the vote. That is why they were afraid. That is why they imposed restrictions, filed false cases, shut down our activities, and staged an election without us. But banning a party does not remove its supporters. Closing party offices does not erase people’s memory. Filing cases does not change people’s experience. People know how to compare. They know what Bangladesh was under the Awami League and what Bangladesh has become now. Under the Awami League, there was stability, development, electricity, infrastructure, investment, security, and hope. Now there is fear, unemployment, price rise, terrorism, minority persecution, and institutional collapse. Whenever there is a free, fair, and inclusive election, the Awami League will win an overwhelming majority. I have no doubt about that. Sidhant Sibal: Who do you think was responsible for the political upheaval in your country in August 2024? Sheikh Hasina: The events of July and August 2024 cannot be explained simply as a spontaneous student movement. That is an incomplete and misleading picture. At the beginning, there were students with concerns about the quota issue. I have never said that young people should not express their views. My government had already abolished the quota system in 2018. When the High Court later annulled that decision in 2024, my government appealed. We invited students for dialogue. Ministers spoke with them. We accepted reasonable demands. We chose legal process, political engagement, and patience. But what began around a student demand was quickly hijacked by forces whose objective was not quota reform. Their objective was to overthrow an elected Awami League government through street violence and chaos. Muhammad Yunus himself later described the movement as “meticulously designed.” That statement alone shows this was not a simple spontaneous protest. The first death was Sabuj Ali, a Dhaka College activist of Bangladesh Chhatra League, the student wing of the Awami League, who was killed on 16 July. After that, violence was deliberately escalated. Government offices were attacked. Public infrastructure was destroyed. Metro Rail was attacked. Police stations were burned. Weapons were looted. Law enforcement officers were killed, tortured, and even hanged from flyovers. Prisons were attacked and militants escaped. Several forces were responsible: opposition political actors, radical groups, militant elements, and those who wanted to use student emotion as a cover for power seizure. I have also said before that questions about external involvement must be investigated carefully with evidence. But one thing is clear: this was not an ordinary protest movement. It was a coordinated political operation. My government had a responsibility to maintain law and order and protect lives, public property, state institutions, and ordinary citizens. In any country, when police stations are burned, officers are killed, prisons are attacked and weapons are looted, law enforcement must respond according to the situation and within the law. Every loss of life is tragic. That is why, while I was still in office, I formed a Judicial Inquiry Commission on 18 July 2024 headed by Justice Khondker Diliruzzaman of the High Court Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. On 1 August, I expanded it into a three-member commission by adding Justice K.M. Zahid Sarwar and Justice Mohammad Showkat Ali Chowdhury. I wanted the truth to come out. But after 5 August, the illegal interim government stopped that inquiry, gave indemnity to those involved in the violence, and used fabricated narratives to criminalise the Awami League. That tells you who wanted truth and who wanted political revenge. The responsibility for August 2024 lies with those who transformed a student issue into violent regime change, those who planned it, financed it, encouraged it, protected it, and later used it to seize power. Bangladesh needs justice, but justice must come through a credible, independent investigation, not through propaganda and kangaroo trials. Sidhant Sibal: How do you think history will remember Yunus? Sheikh Hasina: Power exposed the difference between Muhammad Yunus’s international image and what he did to Bangladesh. After grabbing power through a meticulously designed movement, he did not try to heal Bangladesh. He did not restore democracy. He did not protect citizens. He unleashed mob violence, protected violent actors, and turned revenge into state policy. First, he destroyed Bangladesh’s political culture. Politics became a matter of banning opponents, filing false cases, using the judiciary as a weapon, staging trials, and silencing millions of citizens. The Awami League, the party that led Bangladesh’s Liberation War, was criminalised. Its leaders and workers were killed, jailed, driven into hiding, or buried under fabricated cases. Second, he attacked the history and identity of Bangladesh. Under his watch, the symbols of the Liberation War were destroyed. Freedom fighters were humiliated. The memory of Bangabandhu was targeted. Dhanmondi 32, the historic residence of the Father of the Nation, was attacked and demolished in phases. He spoke of pressing a “reset button.” In reality, that meant trying to erase the Liberation War, erase Bangabandhu, and erase the secular foundation of Bangladesh. Third, he destroyed institutions. Judges were forced to resign under mob pressure. Courts became instruments of revenge. The administration was politicised. Law enforcement was weakened. Media freedom was crushed. Cultural institutions were attacked. Minorities were left exposed. A country we built on secularism and equal citizenship was pushed toward fear and communal politics. Fourth, he opened the door to extremism. Convicted and accused militants were released or allowed to escape. Banned organisations began operating openly. Terrorists who had been kept under control during my government found space again. At the same time, law enforcement and intelligence officers who fought terrorism were dismissed, jailed, or harassed. Those who protected Bangladesh from terrorism were punished, and those linked to extremism were rewarded. Fifth, his mismanagement damaged public health and cost innocent children their lives. We had almost brought measles to the point of elimination. Our vaccination programme was a global model. But under his administration, vaccine procurement was disrupted, warnings were ignored, and the health system was neglected. More than a thousand children died from a preventable disease because of his administrative failure. That is not an accident. That is a crime against the people. Sixth, he used power for personal protection and institutional benefit. After he came to power, cases against him were removed one after another: his labour conviction, labour-law cases, Anti-Corruption Commission case, personal tax cases, and tax cases involving his Grameen network. Grameen Kalyan’s BDT 666 crore tax liability was removed. Grameen Bank received a five-year tax exemption. The government stake in Grameen Bank was cut from 25 percent to 10 percent, weakening public oversight. Approvals and privileges were rushed for Yunus-linked institutions, including a hospital and medical college project, Grameen University, a digital wallet licence, and manpower export authorisation. His associates and network were placed in sensitive positions. So, what was his so-called revolution? It was not for the people. It was for power, protection, and personal benefit. Look at Bangladesh today. The economy has weakened. Investment has fallen. Factories have closed. Jobs have disappeared. Prices have risen. Law and order have collapsed. Women and children are unsafe. Minorities live in fear. Terror networks are reappearing. The development journey of Bangladesh has been derailed. History will not judge him by his Nobel Prize alone. History will judge him by what he did when he held power. And I believe history will remember Muhammad Yunus as a man who created a fake image of peace abroad but destroyed peace at home; a man who spoke of empowering the poor but used power to protect himself; a man who claimed moral authority but presided over revenge, mob violence, institutional destruction, extremism, and the deaths of children. In the end, people will remember him as a selfish power monger who destroyed a peaceful, rising Bangladesh through meticulous design for his own benefit. Bangladesh will recover. The people will recover their country. But the damage he has done will remain a dark chapter in our history.

&nbsp;In a written interview with WION's Sidhant Sibal, the former Bangladesh prime minister said life away from the country ‘is never easy’ and that Bangladesh is in her thoughts ‘every moment’

WION Exclusive: Hasina says she reads father’s unfinished memoir while planning Dhaka return

An uneasy calm gripped relations between Bangladesh and India following ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's virtual public address from New Delhi on August 5, 2026, marking the anniversary of the uprising that toppled her regime. Her vow to return to Bangladesh despite a death sentence sparked sharp diplomatic protests from Dhaka.


Dhaka: No dates finalised for PM Rahman's visit

Uneasy calm prevails after Sheik Hasina's August 5 address

From political controversies to shocking incidents, here are the biggest stories trending across Beyond's social media platforms.

A former Pakistan-occupied Kashmir minister facing allegations in the UK secures a seat in the assembly, sparking fresh debate. Meanwhile, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's first international media address from New Delhi triggers political reactions in Dhaka.

Also trending is the tragic incident of a young footballer in Thailand who died after being struck by lightning during a storm, with visuals of the incident gaining global attention.

Stay updated with the stories dominating social media, digital platforms, and global conversations.

Pakistan Politician Controversy | Hasina's Address  | Thailand Football Tragedy | Social Media Buzz

Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the son of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and a senior Awami League leader, has claimed that Bangladesh is becoming "another Pakistan" while raising concerns over the alleged growing influence of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) in the country.

Speaking virtually from the United States ahead of Sheikh Hasina's address at the Foreign Correspondents' Club in New Delhi, Joy alleged that foreign intelligence agencies now operate freely in Bangladesh. He also claimed that hundreds of individuals convicted on terrorism charges during the Awami League government have been released from prison.

Joy further alleged that extremist groups are becoming increasingly active and warned that the developments could pose serious security concerns for India and the wider region. His remarks come amid continuing political tensions following the change in Bangladesh's leadership.

Hasina's Son Warns Bangladesh Is Becoming 'Another Pakistan' | Raises ISI Concerns

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed on Wednesday said that Bangladesh has become a “failed state” &nbsp;and “another Pakistan on the Indian eastern front,” which poses a security risk. &nbsp;He raised concerns over the role of foreign intelligence agencies in Bangladesh. He made this remark at the Foreign Correspondents' Club (FCC) of South Asia in New Delhi, speaking ahead of a virtual address by his mother, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina."What should concern India most is that Bangladesh has become another Pakistan on India's eastern front. You have another Pakistan today on your eastern front," said Wazed. He said that Pakistan's ISI now has an “open hand” within Bangladesh. He alleged that Bangladesh has become fertile ground for terrorism.&nbsp;“Bangladesh today is not a failing state. It is a failed state," he said, alleging there was “no human rights" and “no freedom of speech" in the country. He also alleged that media agencies are under pressure not to cover the programme.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ceaser-gastelum-shot-dead-tiktok-livestream-mexico-1785939572152">Ceaser Gastelum killed during TikTok livestream: What was his last recording?</a> &nbsp;Wazed pointed out the discrepancy in the death toll on the 2024 protest between the government and the UN, though he did not provide any tangible evidence to corroborate his allegations.Dhaka has used diplomatic channels to urge India to ensure that a "fugitive" facing charges of crimes against humanity is not allowed to use Indian territory to incite instability back home. It sought New Delhi's position on the matter; political activities by Hasina while staying in India could have implications for the evolving diplomatic relationship between the two neighbouring countries. New Delhi has denied having any involvement with Sheikh Hasina's press conference.&nbsp;"The interaction you refer to is being organised by a private media entity. The government has no involvement whatsoever in it. Neither does it endorse any views that may be expressed at the forum," said the MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press briefing.&nbsp;

Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed claimed Bangladesh has become a "failed state" and "another Pakistan" on India's eastern front, raising security concerns.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed on Wednesday said that Bangladesh has become a “failed state” and “another Pakistan on the Indian eastern front,” which poses a security risk. He raised concerns over the role of foreign intelligence agencies in Bangladesh. He made this remark at the Foreign Correspondents' Club (FCC) of South Asia in New Delhi, speaking ahead of a virtual address by his mother, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. "What should concern India most is that Bangladesh has become another Pakistan on India's eastern front. You have another Pakistan today on your eastern front," said Wazed. He said that Pakistan's ISI now has an “open hand” within Bangladesh. He alleged that Bangladesh has become fertile ground for terrorism. “Bangladesh today is not a failing state. It is a failed state," he said, alleging there was “no human rights" and “no freedom of speech" in the country. He also alleged that media agencies are under pressure not to cover the programme. Also Read: Ceaser Gastelum killed during TikTok livestream: What was his last recording? Wazed pointed out the discrepancy in the death toll on the 2024 protest between the government and the UN, though he did not provide any tangible evidence to corroborate his allegations. Dhaka has used diplomatic channels to urge India to ensure that a "fugitive" facing charges of crimes against humanity is not allowed to use Indian territory to incite instability back home. It sought New Delhi's position on the matter; political activities by Hasina while staying in India could have implications for the evolving diplomatic relationship between the two neighbouring countries. New Delhi has denied having any involvement with Sheikh Hasina's press conference. "The interaction you refer to is being organised by a private media entity. The government has no involvement whatsoever in it. Neither does it endorse any views that may be expressed at the forum," said the MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during a press briefing.

Sheikh Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed claimed Bangladesh has become a "failed state" and "another Pakistan" on India's eastern front, raising security concerns.

Sajeeb Wazed raises Indian security concerns, calls Bangladesh a 'failed state'

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addressed her first live international press conference virtually from India since her ouster and exile, and said that the violence that upstaged her government was orchestrated and organised groups worked to turn the students’ demands into violent political instrument.&nbsp;It was not a peaceful student movement but an organised political campaign aimed at regime change, she said while referring to the July-August 2024 nationwide demonstrations in Bangladesh.&nbsp;“It was not a peaceful student protest. Organised groups were working to turn students’ demands into violent political instrument,” said Hasina.&nbsp;<h2>‘Bangladesh is suffering since last two years’</h2>&nbsp;She said that Bangladesh is suffering since the last two years.&nbsp;”For the last two years, I watched my beloved Bangladesh suffer. This is not the Bangladesh we built; this is not the Bangladesh for which 3 million people sacrificed their lives in 1971. Let me begin with the truth about July and August 2024. It was not a peaceful student movement. From the beginning, my government tried to resolve the issue peacefully through dialogue, legal process, and patience. But behind the language of reform, organised groups were working to turn students’ demands into a violent political instrument.”&nbsp;She said the quota reform movement was turned into a one-point demand for her resignation. "False propaganda was spread in a planned way. Genuine students were emotionally manipulated, while organised groups used their movement as cover for violence and regime change,” Hasina added.&nbsp;<h2>‘Yunus himself said it was a meticulously designed movement’</h2>&nbsp;She added, “Muhammad Yunus himself said this was a meticulously designed movement, led by a mastermind. His own words expose the truth. It was not simply a spontaneous student protest. There was no visible or responsible leadership, instructions were given invisibly; it was organised, directed and used to create a path to power outside ballot box.”&nbsp;Hasina said now there is fear in homes, workplaces and campuses and added that this was not the Bangladesh that was envisioned after the Liberation War.&nbsp;“I am the daughter of father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman”&nbsp;“...I speak as someone who has spent her life with the people of Bangladesh and was forced away from my country, but I was never separated from my people,” she added.&nbsp;Hasina said after the regime change, Awami League leaders and workers faced widespread political persecution, and thousands were killed, disappeared or arrested while hundreds of thousands were booked in criminal cases.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Accuses Yunus govt of halting probe into 2024 violence</h3>Sheikh Hasina also accused the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus of halting a judicial inquiry set up by her government into the violence.&nbsp;She said her government had set up a judicial inquiry commission on July 18, 2024, to investigate every death and incident of violence during the unrest, but the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus halted the investigation after taking power.&nbsp;&nbsp;She further alleged that an indemnity was granted to those involved in the violence, asking, "If they truly wanted justice, why did they stop the inquiry?"&nbsp;<h2>‘They tried to erase the legacy of Liberation War’</h2>&nbsp;Hasina said all symbols associated with Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War were vandalised, members of minority communities targeted, and the historic Dhanmondi 32 residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman demolished to erase the legacy of the Liberation War.&nbsp;Hasina said she would return to Bangladesh despite the cases against her. She said she would return to Bangladesh despite the risks of being detained or imprisoned and that fear would not stop her from fulfilling her duty to the people of Bangladesh.&nbsp;“Whatever fate awaits me, I will return to my people. I cannot stay away while my beloved countrymen are suffering… I want to go back in the month of December,” she said.&nbsp;<h2>‘They may kill me, put me in jail’</h2>&nbsp;‘They may kill me, put me in jail… I know I may get detained, I may be sent to prison, they may try to force politically motivated fabricated cases, but fear cannot decide my duty to the people. My life went beyond calculations of personal safety long ago,” Hasina said.&nbsp;She said her return was not about power but about restoring security, development, prosperity, and peace, and putting Bangladesh “back on the right track.”&nbsp;Hasina demanded that the ban on her Awami League party be lifted, its leaders be released and legal cases against party members be withdrawn.&nbsp;The event was organised by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC) South Asia at the Sir Mark Tully Auditoriumi in New Delhi.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said that the violence that upstaged her government was orchestrated and organised groups worked to turn the students’ demands into violent political instrument.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addressed her first live international press conference virtually from India since her ouster and exile, and said that the violence that upstaged her government was orchestrated and organised groups worked to turn the students’ demands into violent political instrument. It was not a peaceful student movement but an organised political campaign aimed at regime change, she said while referring to the July-August 2024 nationwide demonstrations in Bangladesh. “It was not a peaceful student protest. Organised groups were working to turn students’ demands into violent political instrument,” said Hasina. ‘Bangladesh is suffering since last two years’ She said that Bangladesh is suffering since the last two years. ”For the last two years, I watched my beloved Bangladesh suffer. This is not the Bangladesh we built; this is not the Bangladesh for which 3 million people sacrificed their lives in 1971. Let me begin with the truth about July and August 2024. It was not a peaceful student movement. From the beginning, my government tried to resolve the issue peacefully through dialogue, legal process, and patience. But behind the language of reform, organised groups were working to turn students’ demands into a violent political instrument.” She said the quota reform movement was turned into a one-point demand for her resignation. "False propaganda was spread in a planned way. Genuine students were emotionally manipulated, while organised groups used their movement as cover for violence and regime change,” Hasina added. ‘Yunus himself said it was a meticulously designed movement’ She added, “Muhammad Yunus himself said this was a meticulously designed movement, led by a mastermind. His own words expose the truth. It was not simply a spontaneous student protest. There was no visible or responsible leadership, instructions were given invisibly; it was organised, directed and used to create a path to power outside ballot box.” Hasina said now there is fear in homes, workplaces and campuses and added that this was not the Bangladesh that was envisioned after the Liberation War. “I am the daughter of father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman” “...I speak as someone who has spent her life with the people of Bangladesh and was forced away from my country, but I was never separated from my people,” she added. Hasina said after the regime change, Awami League leaders and workers faced widespread political persecution, and thousands were killed, disappeared or arrested while hundreds of thousands were booked in criminal cases. Accuses Yunus govt of halting probe into 2024 violence Sheikh Hasina also accused the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus of halting a judicial inquiry set up by her government into the violence. She said her government had set up a judicial inquiry commission on July 18, 2024, to investigate every death and incident of violence during the unrest, but the interim administration led by Muhammad Yunus halted the investigation after taking power. She further alleged that an indemnity was granted to those involved in the violence, asking, "If they truly wanted justice, why did they stop the inquiry?" ‘They tried to erase the legacy of Liberation War’ Hasina said all symbols associated with Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War were vandalised, members of minority communities targeted, and the historic Dhanmondi 32 residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman demolished to erase the legacy of the Liberation War. Hasina said she would return to Bangladesh despite the cases against her. She said she would return to Bangladesh despite the risks of being detained or imprisoned and that fear would not stop her from fulfilling her duty to the people of Bangladesh. “Whatever fate awaits me, I will return to my people. I cannot stay away while my beloved countrymen are suffering… I want to go back in the month of December,” she said. ‘They may kill me, put me in jail’ ‘They may kill me, put me in jail… I know I may get detained, I may be sent to prison, they may try to force politically motivated fabricated cases, but fear cannot decide my duty to the people. My life went beyond calculations of personal safety long ago,” Hasina said. She said her return was not about power but about restoring security, development, prosperity, and peace, and putting Bangladesh “back on the right track.” Hasina demanded that the ban on her Awami League party be lifted, its leaders be released and legal cases against party members be withdrawn. The event was organised by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC) South Asia at the Sir Mark Tully Auditoriumi in New Delhi.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said that the violence that upstaged her government was orchestrated and organised groups worked to turn the students’ demands into violent political instrument.

‘Organised groups turned students’ stir into violent protest,’ says Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh has formally raised concerns with India over former prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s planned address, urging New Delhi to prevent her from using Indian territory for activities. The issue was raised on Monday during a courtesy call by India’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Dhaka, Dinesh Trivedi, on the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs, Humayun Kabir, at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon.&nbsp;According to a Bangladesh foreign ministry statement, the adviser told the high commissioner that “Bangladesh expects India’s cooperation.." including Sheikh Hasina who "can use Indian territory to deliver political speeches or carry out any activities aimed at creating instability inside Bangladesh.” He warned that such activities “could harm the positive progress of bilateral relations.”&nbsp;Hasina, who fled Bangladesh after her government was ousted in August 2024, is scheduled to address an event on 5 August at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club. Dhaka regards her as a fugitive and has previously pressed India not to allow her political activities from its soil. The Indian High Commissioner responded that he would “duly consider the matter, make the necessary inquiries, and remain vigilant on this issue,” the Bangladesh statement said.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deal-or-total-surrender-trump-says-iran-s-leadership-dishonest-and-unbelievably-duplicitous-1785772683657">‘Deal or total surrender’: Trump says Iran’s leadership dishonest and ‘unbelievably duplicitous’</a>&nbsp;Both sides stressed the importance of regular dialogue and constructive engagement. Both sides also reviewed various aspects of bilateral ties, including on development cooperation. An Indian High Commission statement said the discussion focused on “increasing people-centric cooperation between the two neighbouring countries, based on mutual interest and mutual benefit.” High Commissioner Trivedi “reiterated India’s intent to work positively with the Government of Bangladesh to advance the developmental aspirations of the peoples of India and Bangladesh.”&nbsp;India has hosted Hasina since her departure and has repeatedly said it supports the democratic process and stability in the country, while Dhaka has sought assurances that its territory will not be used against Bangladeshi interests. &nbsp;

Hasina, who fled Bangladesh after her government was ousted in August 2024, is scheduled to address an event on 5 August at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club. 

Bangladesh has formally raised concerns with India over former prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s planned address, urging New Delhi to prevent her from using Indian territory for activities. The issue was raised on Monday during a courtesy call by India’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Dhaka, Dinesh Trivedi, on the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Foreign Affairs, Humayun Kabir, at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon. According to a Bangladesh foreign ministry statement, the adviser told the high commissioner that “Bangladesh expects India’s cooperation.." including Sheikh Hasina who "can use Indian territory to deliver political speeches or carry out any activities aimed at creating instability inside Bangladesh.” He warned that such activities “could harm the positive progress of bilateral relations.” Hasina, who fled Bangladesh after her government was ousted in August 2024, is scheduled to address an event on 5 August at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club. Dhaka regards her as a fugitive and has previously pressed India not to allow her political activities from its soil. The Indian High Commissioner responded that he would “duly consider the matter, make the necessary inquiries, and remain vigilant on this issue,” the Bangladesh statement said. ALSO READ: ‘Deal or total surrender’: Trump says Iran’s leadership dishonest and ‘unbelievably duplicitous’ Both sides stressed the importance of regular dialogue and constructive engagement. Both sides also reviewed various aspects of bilateral ties, including on development cooperation. An Indian High Commission statement said the discussion focused on “increasing people-centric cooperation between the two neighbouring countries, based on mutual interest and mutual benefit.” High Commissioner Trivedi “reiterated India’s intent to work positively with the Government of Bangladesh to advance the developmental aspirations of the peoples of India and Bangladesh.” India has hosted Hasina since her departure and has repeatedly said it supports the democratic process and stability in the country, while Dhaka has sought assurances that its territory will not be used against Bangladeshi interests.

Hasina, who fled Bangladesh after her government was ousted in August 2024, is scheduled to address an event on 5 August at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club.&nbsp;

Dhaka raises Sheikh Hasina’s planned address with Indian envoy

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared that she will return to Bangladesh by December despite saying she fears she could be killed or imprisoned. Speaking from an undisclosed location in India, the ousted leader dismissed the crimes against humanity verdict against her as politically motivated and said the decision to return is her own. Her remarks come as Bangladesh's extradition request remains under review by India. 

Sheikh Hasina vows return to Bangladesh by December

Exiled Bangladeshi writer and activist Taslima Nasreen, who returned to Kolkata after nearly two decades, has criticised the growing religious fundamentalism in Bangladesh and the role of madrasas in it while making strong remarks on the country’s political and social situation.&nbsp;She also called for Bangladesh to become a secular nation with a Uniform Civil Code, revoking the ban on the Awami League and the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to her nation.&nbsp;Speaking to media on Sunday, Taslima said, “The madrasas in Bangladesh should not exist. In many cases, madrasas have been found to be producing jihadists. Imams and madrasa teachers have been arrested and sent to jail. I do not believe there is any need for madrasas. Many graduates do not go on to do productive work; they survive on donations.”&nbsp;She also claimed that hatred towards non-Muslims is taught in many madrasas, and Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians face persecution in Bangladesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance</a><h2>‘Bangladesh should become a secular country’</h2>&nbsp;She also called for Bangladesh to become a secular country.Some mosques have become centres of jihadist activity, and the government should exercise oversight and control over them, she added.“If a country wants to be truly secular, religion must be separated from the state. These are the kinds of measures that help a society progress,” she said.&nbsp;“What is needed most is education. Everyone has the right to live. Instead of building more temples and madrasas, there should be greater emphasis on education," she said.&nbsp;<h2>‘No decline in the influence of fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh’</h2>&nbsp;Nasreen said she did not see any decline in the influence of fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh.“I do not see any signs of it declining. On the contrary, it is increasing. Jamaat-e-Islami will now have a presence in Parliament. It would have been better if the Awami League had remained the principal opposition party,” she said.She also said there was no difference between the Tarique Rahman era and the Yunus era in Bangladesh.&nbsp;Nasrin further said that the Bangladesh government does not take action against people who torture Hindus.&nbsp;On the arrest of former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh, she said he paid the price for helping Hindus who were in trouble. “Many like us are speaking up for Chinmoy. Free thinkers are continuously being targeted. Many of us had no choice but to leave the country.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Women should not be governed by religion-based personal laws’</h2>&nbsp;Nasreen said she has been campaigning for a Uniform Civil Code for the past 40 years. “I have been fighting for a Uniform Civil Code for the last 40 years. This subcontinent needs a Uniform Civil Code. In particular, women should not be governed by religion-based personal laws,” she said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-eroded-india-s-faith-bit-by-bit-indian-envoy-defends-putting-indus-waters-treaty-in-abeyance-1785679387240">Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche</a>&nbsp;The author said daughters in Bangladesh do not have equal inheritance rights in their father’s property. She also claimed that many Hindu men enter into multiple marriages and that women cannot obtain a divorce.According to her, Hindu women in Bangladesh need a Uniform Civil Code to secure their rights because religion-based personal laws continue to discriminate against women.She also said, “Any religion that turns women into sexual slaves is something they should leave behind.”&nbsp;Taslima Nasreen expressed hope that relations between India and Bangladesh would improve, saying India had made a huge contribution to Bangladesh’s independence.&nbsp;<h2>‘Sheikh Hasina should return to lead her party and fight elections’</h2>&nbsp;She also called for the return of former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina to her country to lead her party and fight elections.“The ouster of Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina in the way it happened was wrong. It was anti-democratic. Banning the party was absolutely undemocratic. They should be allowed to participate in elections. I want Hasina to return to Bangladesh,” she told reporters in Kolkata.&nbsp;She thanked West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for inviting her back to Kolkata after 19 years.“The newly elected government has assured security in Bengal during my stay. I would like to thank the chief minister for that,” she said.

Taslima Nasreen said hatred towards non-Muslims is taught in many madrasas, and Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians face persecution in Bangladesh. She added that some mosques have become centres of jihadist activity, and the government should exercise oversight and control over them.

Exiled Bangladeshi writer and activist Taslima Nasreen, who returned to Kolkata after nearly two decades, has criticised the growing religious fundamentalism in Bangladesh and the role of madrasas in it while making strong remarks on the country’s political and social situation. She also called for Bangladesh to become a secular nation with a Uniform Civil Code, revoking the ban on the Awami League and the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to her nation. Speaking to media on Sunday, Taslima said, “The madrasas in Bangladesh should not exist. In many cases, madrasas have been found to be producing jihadists. Imams and madrasa teachers have been arrested and sent to jail. I do not believe there is any need for madrasas. Many graduates do not go on to do productive work; they survive on donations.” She also claimed that hatred towards non-Muslims is taught in many madrasas, and Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians face persecution in Bangladesh. Also Read: ‘Pakistan eroded India's faith bit by bit’: Indian envoy defends putting Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance ‘Bangladesh should become a secular country’ She also called for Bangladesh to become a secular country. Some mosques have become centres of jihadist activity, and the government should exercise oversight and control over them, she added. “If a country wants to be truly secular, religion must be separated from the state. These are the kinds of measures that help a society progress,” she said. “What is needed most is education. Everyone has the right to live. Instead of building more temples and madrasas, there should be greater emphasis on education," she said. ‘No decline in the influence of fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh’ Nasreen said she did not see any decline in the influence of fundamentalist groups in Bangladesh. “I do not see any signs of it declining. On the contrary, it is increasing. Jamaat-e-Islami will now have a presence in Parliament. It would have been better if the Awami League had remained the principal opposition party,” she said. She also said there was no difference between the Tarique Rahman era and the Yunus era in Bangladesh. Nasrin further said that the Bangladesh government does not take action against people who torture Hindus. On the arrest of former ISKCON leader Chinmoy Krishna Das in Bangladesh, she said he paid the price for helping Hindus who were in trouble. “Many like us are speaking up for Chinmoy. Free thinkers are continuously being targeted. Many of us had no choice but to leave the country.” ‘Women should not be governed by religion-based personal laws’ Nasreen said she has been campaigning for a Uniform Civil Code for the past 40 years. “I have been fighting for a Uniform Civil Code for the last 40 years. This subcontinent needs a Uniform Civil Code. In particular, women should not be governed by religion-based personal laws,” she said. Also Read: Mountaineer Nirmal Purja’s body recovered from Broad Peak three days after avalanche The author said daughters in Bangladesh do not have equal inheritance rights in their father’s property. She also claimed that many Hindu men enter into multiple marriages and that women cannot obtain a divorce. According to her, Hindu women in Bangladesh need a Uniform Civil Code to secure their rights because religion-based personal laws continue to discriminate against women. She also said, “Any religion that turns women into sexual slaves is something they should leave behind.” Taslima Nasreen expressed hope that relations between India and Bangladesh would improve, saying India had made a huge contribution to Bangladesh’s independence. ‘Sheikh Hasina should return to lead her party and fight elections’ She also called for the return of former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina to her country to lead her party and fight elections. “The ouster of Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina in the way it happened was wrong. It was anti-democratic. Banning the party was absolutely undemocratic. They should be allowed to participate in elections. I want Hasina to return to Bangladesh,” she told reporters in Kolkata. She thanked West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari for inviting her back to Kolkata after 19 years. “The newly elected government has assured security in Bengal during my stay. I would like to thank the chief minister for that,” she said.

Taslima Nasreen said hatred towards non-Muslims is taught in many madrasas, and Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians face persecution in Bangladesh. She added that some mosques have become centres of jihadist activity, and the government should exercise oversight and control over them.

‘Madrasas shouldn’t exist, they produce jihadists’: Taslima Nasreen wants Bangladesh to be secular nation

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will make her first public appearance on August 5 after being ousted two years ago following a student-led uprising in Bangladesh. She has been living in exile in India since then and is expected to make his first public appearance at an event at the Sir Mark Tully Auditorium at the AB-19 Mathura Road in Delhi from 6 pm to 7.30 pm. The virtual event is being organised by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) based in New Delhi.&nbsp;She is expected to speak on the political situation in Bangladesh, the need to restore democracy and her future plans. She is expected to break her long silence to outline her political roadmap and formally address her proposed return to Bangladesh. She will be joined by her son Sajeeb Wazeed Joy, former minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel, cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, former diplomat Animul Hoque Polash, writer and analyst Abu Obaidha Arin, and advocate Shah Mohammed Bakhtiar.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-denies-reopening-strait-of-hormuz-trump-deal-claim-1785676954354">Iran rejects reopening Strait of Hormuz, warns US of 'decisive' response</a>"I may be killed. I may be arrested. I may be sent to prison," said Hasina to AFP on Sunday in an email. "I am fully aware of my fate. Still, I want to go back because my people are calling me." Bangladesh has previously requested the extradition of Hasina, though she is under pressure to return so that she can reside in India "with due respect and dignity".Hasina has previously claimed that she would return to Bangladesh, in an interview in June with Reuters. She said that she is planning to return to Bangladesh in December 2026. But she faces stern legal challenges, including a death penalty. She was sentenced to death in absentia on November 17, 2025, by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, because of the student-led uprising in Bangladesh which claimed 1,400 lives.&nbsp;"Despite being a death penalty convict, being a Bangladeshi citizen, if she intends to surrender showing respect to the law by returning home, perhaps she will be arrested before she could do so," Bangladesh Law Minister M Asaduzzaman said on Thursday. "Whenever she enters our territory, I will enforce the authority that the law has reposed upon me."&nbsp;&nbsp;

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina will make her first public appearance since her ouster, speaking on Bangladesh's political future and her planned return.

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will make her first public appearance on August 5 after being ousted two years ago following a student-led uprising in Bangladesh. She has been living in exile in India since then and is expected to make his first public appearance at an event at the Sir Mark Tully Auditorium at the AB-19 Mathura Road in Delhi from 6 pm to 7.30 pm. The virtual event is being organised by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC South Asia) based in New Delhi. She is expected to speak on the political situation in Bangladesh, the need to restore democracy and her future plans. She is expected to break her long silence to outline her political roadmap and formally address her proposed return to Bangladesh. She will be joined by her son Sajeeb Wazeed Joy, former minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel, cricketer Shakib Al Hasan, former diplomat Animul Hoque Polash, writer and analyst Abu Obaidha Arin, and advocate Shah Mohammed Bakhtiar. Also Read: Iran rejects reopening Strait of Hormuz, warns US of 'decisive' response "I may be killed. I may be arrested. I may be sent to prison," said Hasina to AFP on Sunday in an email. "I am fully aware of my fate. Still, I want to go back because my people are calling me." Bangladesh has previously requested the extradition of Hasina, though she is under pressure to return so that she can reside in India "with due respect and dignity". Hasina has previously claimed that she would return to Bangladesh, in an interview in June with Reuters. She said that she is planning to return to Bangladesh in December 2026. But she faces stern legal challenges, including a death penalty. She was sentenced to death in absentia on November 17, 2025, by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, because of the student-led uprising in Bangladesh which claimed 1,400 lives. "Despite being a death penalty convict, being a Bangladeshi citizen, if she intends to surrender showing respect to the law by returning home, perhaps she will be arrested before she could do so," Bangladesh Law Minister M Asaduzzaman said on Thursday. "Whenever she enters our territory, I will enforce the authority that the law has reposed upon me."

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina will make her first public appearance since her ouster, speaking on Bangladesh's political future and her planned return.

Sheikh Hasina to make first public appearance since ouster, says 'I may be killed' ahead of Bangladesh return

Here are the top stories making headlines from India and around the world.

US President Donald Trump has warned Iran of a strong response after attacks targeting American military assets in the region. Meanwhile, Iraq has condemned US-Saudi strikes targeting the Popular Mobilization Forces, an armed alliance that includes powerful pro-Iran factions. In India, Parliament has passed a new anti-paper leak law amid a heated political battle. The bill was cleared after a stormy debate following Rahul Gandhi's allegations over police action during student protests and the government's response. Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said she remains determined to return to the country by December despite concerns over her safety.
Japan is dealing with the aftermath of a powerful 7.1 magnitude earthquake, while a shopping mall operator apologised after an explosion at a Kumamoto shopping centre. Thousands of people evacuated due to wildfires in Spain are returning home, while French firefighters prepare for worsening fire conditions.


US vs Iran Escalation | Japan Quake | Paper Leak Bill Passed | Iraq Condemns US-Saudi Strikes

India's Lok Sabha has passed the Anti-Paper Leak Bill following nationwide student protests over the NEET paper leak controversy. The bill was cleared amid heated exchanges and loud protests from the opposition. BJP leaders also launched a sharp attack on Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi after he alleged that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had authorized police firing on student protesters.

Meanwhile, the conflict in West Asia continues to escalate as the United States and Saudi Arabia say they carried out strikes on an Iraqi militant alliance in response to recent attacks. In Japan, a powerful earthquake has claimed at least 13 lives, with rescue teams racing to find survivors trapped under collapsed buildings.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina says she is determined to return to Bangladesh by December despite security concerns. Europe is also battling devastating wildfires, with thousands evacuated in Spain while French firefighters struggle to contain rapidly spreading blazes.

Indian stock markets ended sharply higher, with the Sensex surging nearly 900 points and the Nifty closing at 24,250, adding nearly ₹4 lakh crore to investor wealth despite rising oil prices linked to the US-Iran conflict.

Stay tuned for the latest national and international news updates.

India Passes Anti-Paper Leak Bill | Rahul Gandhi vs BJP | US-Saudi Strikes Iraq | Japan Earthquake 

Bangladesh is entering another major political transition as President Mohammad Shahabuddin prepares to resign before completing his five-year term. According to official sources, Shahabuddin's resignation comes amid increasing political pressure linked to his long association with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, whose Awami League government was removed during the 2024 student-led uprising. The move also comes as Sheikh Hasina has announced plans to return to Bangladesh later this year after being convicted by the country's war crimes tribunal—a verdict she strongly denies.

Bangladesh President Mohammad Shahabuddin resigns | political shake-up ahead of Hasina's return

Bangladesh is witnessing another major political transition as President Mohammad Shahabuddin is set to resign halfway through his five-year term. Reports suggest the government urged him to step down due to his long-standing association with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, whose Awami League government was ousted during the 2024 student-led uprising. The resignation comes just days after Sheikh Hasina announced plans to return to Bangladesh later this year despite her conviction by the country's war crimes tribunal, which she denies. Parliament Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed is expected to serve as interim president until a successor is elected.

Bangladesh President Mohammad Shahabuddin likely to resign | Sheikh Hasina return looms 

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has decided to return to her country despite being sentenced to death. Hasina, 78, has been living in India since she fled Dhaka after she was ousted following a violent student-led protest on August 5, 2024. After the BNP came to power, they have been seeking the extradition of Hasina, however, she had earlier said that she will return when the government in her country can ensure justice. As she hints at her return, the major question that arises is that why has she agreed to return.&nbsp;The longest-serving prime minister of the South Asian nation has been sentenced to death in absentia after the Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal found her guilty of crimes against humanity. This happened while the country was still under the interim government led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. His government also banned the Awami League from campaigning, carrying out political activities and contesting elections. Hasina had called Yunus a "foreign agent" and accused him of fanning hatred against her party and her government.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh/bangladesh-freezes-6-19-billion-linked-to-sheikh-hasina-family-in-massive-crackdown-1784184559837">Bangladesh freezes $6.19 billion linked to Sheikh Hasina, family in massive crackdown</a>&nbsp;The scenario has changed now. It is Bangaldesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in power and former late PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman is the prime minister. &nbsp;His government has been maintaining that Hasina should return and pay for her alleged crimes. His advisor Zahed Ur Rahman, recently said that if she returns, the government "will welcome her." he also suggested her to “bring the best lawyers in the world" and follow the judicial process.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-is-no-change-india-breaks-silence-on-extradition-of-former-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-1784097304806">'There is no change...': India breaks silence on extradition of Hasina</a>&nbsp;The BNP government has also maintained a good relation with India since in power despite pushing for Hasina's extradition. Combining this with Rahman's advisor's statement, it may be assumed that BNP might not seek political revenge from Hasina and Awami League knows this. Additionally, Hasina might be tempted to expose the unfair judicial process of BNP to the world. While she won't be saved, she would pave way for a bright future for her party Awami League. This is exactly a leaf out of Khaleda Zia's book. While she faced jail term and isolation in Bangladesh, when times changed, her son returned from London and ended up being the head of the state - winning a free and fair election.<h2>What is India's position on the matter?</h2>As for India, there might be a good news and a bad one. If Hasina decides to leave, it would be the end of one of the crucial sensitive issue between New Delhi and Dhaka, amid the latter's increasing ties with Beijing. The bad news is if Hasina is persecuted after she returns, India will be under scanner as it would violate the principle of non-refoulement in the international law. Though India is not a signatory to 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol that makes the principle legally binding, ethically, it would be at the centre of a major controversy.&nbsp;For now, speaking to media on Tuesday (July 15) during weekly press briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the matter is a legal issue and will be dealt accordingly. The MEA clarified that there has been no change in New Delhi's stance on the matter even as the former Bangladeshi PM has openly expressed about her plans to leave India and return to her homeland. &nbsp;“There is no change in our approach to the matter. Any extradition matter is a legal issue, and it will be dealt with accordingly,” external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters. India has maintained that the extradition demand will be examined in line with judicial and legal processes.<h2>What Sheikh Hasina said?</h2>Hasina, who is in India, since she fled her nation after August uprising, said that she may go back by December along with other senior party colleagues. While she expressed her fear of getting killed, she said that she is not afraid to be jailed. She also said that people should decide the fate of her party Awami league and the BNP government should not ban it. "They may arrest me on my return, they may even kill me...If death comes, I want it to come on my own soil, where my parents are buried and where their blood was shed," Hasina said. "When a government works for a long ⁠time, mistakes can ​happen — no government is above error. But the right to judge the good and bad, the right and wrong of a ​government belongs to the people. They may have convicted me, and I may not be able to ​contest elections. But why should they suspend the Awami League?" she added.

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has indicated she may return to Bangladesh despite being sentenced to death in absentia. The BNP government says she will receive due legal process, while India maintains that any extradition request will be handled legally

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has decided to return to her country despite being sentenced to death. Hasina, 78, has been living in India since she fled Dhaka after she was ousted following a violent student-led protest on August 5, 2024. After the BNP came to power, they have been seeking the extradition of Hasina, however, she had earlier said that she will return when the government in her country can ensure justice. As she hints at her return, the major question that arises is that why has she agreed to return. The longest-serving prime minister of the South Asian nation has been sentenced to death in absentia after the Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal found her guilty of crimes against humanity. This happened while the country was still under the interim government led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus. His government also banned the Awami League from campaigning, carrying out political activities and contesting elections. Hasina had called Yunus a "foreign agent" and accused him of fanning hatred against her party and her government. Also Read: Bangladesh freezes $6.19 billion linked to Sheikh Hasina, family in massive crackdown The scenario has changed now. It is Bangaldesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in power and former late PM Khaleda Zia's son Tarique Rahman is the prime minister. His government has been maintaining that Hasina should return and pay for her alleged crimes. His advisor Zahed Ur Rahman, recently said that if she returns, the government "will welcome her." he also suggested her to “bring the best lawyers in the world" and follow the judicial process. Also Read: 'There is no change...': India breaks silence on extradition of Hasina The BNP government has also maintained a good relation with India since in power despite pushing for Hasina's extradition. Combining this with Rahman's advisor's statement, it may be assumed that BNP might not seek political revenge from Hasina and Awami League knows this. Additionally, Hasina might be tempted to expose the unfair judicial process of BNP to the world. While she won't be saved, she would pave way for a bright future for her party Awami League. This is exactly a leaf out of Khaleda Zia's book. While she faced jail term and isolation in Bangladesh, when times changed, her son returned from London and ended up being the head of the state - winning a free and fair election. What is India's position on the matter? As for India, there might be a good news and a bad one. If Hasina decides to leave, it would be the end of one of the crucial sensitive issue between New Delhi and Dhaka, amid the latter's increasing ties with Beijing. The bad news is if Hasina is persecuted after she returns, India will be under scanner as it would violate the principle of non-refoulement in the international law. Though India is not a signatory to 1951 Refugee Convention or its 1967 Protocol that makes the principle legally binding, ethically, it would be at the centre of a major controversy. For now, speaking to media on Tuesday (July 15) during weekly press briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that the matter is a legal issue and will be dealt accordingly. The MEA clarified that there has been no change in New Delhi's stance on the matter even as the former Bangladeshi PM has openly expressed about her plans to leave India and return to her homeland. “There is no change in our approach to the matter. Any extradition matter is a legal issue, and it will be dealt with accordingly,” external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal told reporters. India has maintained that the extradition demand will be examined in line with judicial and legal processes. What Sheikh Hasina said? Hasina, who is in India, since she fled her nation after August uprising, said that she may go back by December along with other senior party colleagues. While she expressed her fear of getting killed, she said that she is not afraid to be jailed. She also said that people should decide the fate of her party Awami league and the BNP government should not ban it. "They may arrest me on my return, they may even kill me...If death comes, I want it to come on my own soil, where my parents are buried and where their blood was shed," Hasina said. "When a government works for a long ⁠time, mistakes can happen — no government is above error. But the right to judge the good and bad, the right and wrong of a government belongs to the people. They may have convicted me, and I may not be able to contest elections. But why should they suspend the Awami League?" she added.

Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina has indicated she may return to Bangladesh despite being sentenced to death in absentia. The BNP government says she will receive due legal process, while India maintains that any extradition request will be handled legally

Why Sheikh Hasina wants to return to Bangladesh despite death sentence —and what it means for India | WION Decodes

Bangladesh's financial intelligence agency on Wednesday (Jul 15) said authorities have frozen assets worth Tk 760 billion (approximately $6.19 billion USD) linked to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, members of her family and 10 of the country's biggest business groups, marking one of the largest asset-freezing exercises since last year's political upheaval.Speaking at the launch of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit's (BFIU) annual report in Dhaka, BFIU chief Ikhtiar Uddin Mohammad Mamun said court orders had enabled authorities to freeze Tk 570 billion worth of assets inside Bangladesh and another Tk 190 billion overseas.Mamun did not provide a breakdown of how much had been frozen from individual family members or specific business groups.Asset recovery efforts underwayThe BFIU chief said authorities were now focused on tracing and recovering money allegedly moved out of the country."We are working to recover the assets that were stolen from the country. We hope to share positive news on asset recovery by the end of this year," he said.The asset freeze follows investigations launched after Hasina was ousted from power on August 5, 2024, following a student-led uprising. She later fled from Bangladesh and has since been living in asylum in India.The interim government headed by Professor Muhammad Yunus subsequently ordered probes into allegations including corruption, bribery, fraud, forgery, money laundering, foreign currency smuggling and tax evasion involving Hasina's family and several major corporate groups.Ten business groups under scannerAccording to the BFIU, the investigation covers S Alam Group, Beximco Group, Nabil Group, Summit Group, Orion Group, Premier Group, Nassa Group, Bashundhara Group, Sikder Group and Aramit Group.The investigations are being carried out jointly by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), with the BFIU coordinating the financial intelligence aspect of the probe.'Political identity does not matter'During the event, Mamun was asked why major financial investigations often gather pace after a change in government and whether members of the current interim administration could also face scrutiny.He rejected suggestions that the investigations were politically driven. "When carrying out our work, we do not consider political affiliation or personal identity. We focus on the work itself," he said.Mamun added that banks freeze accounts whenever they identify suspicious transactions, regardless of who is involved. "If anyone from the interim government is involved, that will also come to light," he said. &nbsp;

Bangladesh has frozen assets worth $6.19 billion linked to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, her family and 10 major business groups as part of a sweeping corruption and money laundering investigation.

Bangladesh's financial intelligence agency on Wednesday (Jul 15) said authorities have frozen assets worth Tk 760 billion (approximately $6.19 billion USD) linked to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, members of her family and 10 of the country's biggest business groups, marking one of the largest asset-freezing exercises since last year's political upheaval. Speaking at the launch of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit's (BFIU) annual report in Dhaka, BFIU chief Ikhtiar Uddin Mohammad Mamun said court orders had enabled authorities to freeze Tk 570 billion worth of assets inside Bangladesh and another Tk 190 billion overseas. Mamun did not provide a breakdown of how much had been frozen from individual family members or specific business groups. Asset recovery efforts underway The BFIU chief said authorities were now focused on tracing and recovering money allegedly moved out of the country. "We are working to recover the assets that were stolen from the country. We hope to share positive news on asset recovery by the end of this year," he said. The asset freeze follows investigations launched after Hasina was ousted from power on August 5, 2024, following a student-led uprising. She later fled from Bangladesh and has since been living in asylum in India. The interim government headed by Professor Muhammad Yunus subsequently ordered probes into allegations including corruption, bribery, fraud, forgery, money laundering, foreign currency smuggling and tax evasion involving Hasina's family and several major corporate groups. Ten business groups under scanner According to the BFIU, the investigation covers S Alam Group, Beximco Group, Nabil Group, Summit Group, Orion Group, Premier Group, Nassa Group, Bashundhara Group, Sikder Group and Aramit Group. The investigations are being carried out jointly by the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), the National Board of Revenue (NBR) and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), with the BFIU coordinating the financial intelligence aspect of the probe. 'Political identity does not matter' During the event, Mamun was asked why major financial investigations often gather pace after a change in government and whether members of the current interim administration could also face scrutiny. He rejected suggestions that the investigations were politically driven. "When carrying out our work, we do not consider political affiliation or personal identity. We focus on the work itself," he said. Mamun added that banks freeze accounts whenever they identify suspicious transactions, regardless of who is involved. "If anyone from the interim government is involved, that will also come to light," he said.

Bangladesh has frozen assets worth $6.19 billion linked to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, her family and 10 major business groups as part of a sweeping corruption and money laundering investigation.

Bangladesh freezes $6.19 billion linked to Sheikh Hasina, family in massive crackdown

Reports of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's possible return have triggered fresh political tensions and international attention. The chief prosecutor of Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal has urged Hasina to surrender and warned against any action that could create instability. Hasina, who left Bangladesh in 2024 following widespread protests, has said she plans to return voluntarily with Awami League members. She continues to deny the charges against her, while authorities in Bangladesh have maintained legal action against the former leader.

Sheikh Hasina return row: Bangladesh tribunal demands surrender amid political tensions | Bangladesh

In a stunning development, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has announced her intention to return to Bangladesh from exile in India by December 2026. Despite being sentenced to death in absentia by a war crimes tribunal for her alleged role in the 2024 protest crackdowns, the 78-year-old leader insists she will surrender voluntarily to the courts.


Sheikh Hasina & Her Colleagues to Return to Bangladesh

In an exclusive interview, former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has officially announced her intention to return to Bangladesh from exile in India around December 2026. Having resided in India since August 2024, the 78-year-old leader stated she plans to return voluntarily alongside senior colleagues of the Awami League to surrender before the country’s judicial courts.


Sheikh Hasina announces return: Former Bangladesh PM sets December deadline

Ousted Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina, who is living in exile in India after being sentenced to death in Bangladesh and her Awami League party being banned, has said in an interview that she and senior party leaders voluntarily plan to return around December and surrender in court, adding that she faces a risk to her life and may be killed but would still go back to her home country.&nbsp;The 78-year-old leader told Reuters that she and other Awami League leaders want to return to the country and present themselves in court.“They may arrest me on my return, they may even kill me. Still, I have to go,” said Hasina.“My party leaders and workers are being subjected to tremendous repression. If death comes, I want it to come on my own soil, where my parents are buried and where their blood was shed.”&nbsp;<h2>Bangladesh’s war crimes court sentenced Hasina to death in absentia</h2>&nbsp;Hasina fled Bangladesh in 2024 after protests ended her 20 years in power across terms. In November, Bangladesh’s war crimes court sentenced her to death in absentia for ordering a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising.&nbsp;&nbsp;This is the first time Hasina has announced a timeline for her return with other exiled Awami League leaders including former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who also faces a death sentence.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-hiv-outbreak-health-minister-mustafa-kamal-blames-night-party-goers-for-child-infections-1783677297132">Pakistan HIV outbreak: Health Minister Mustafa Kamal blames 'night party goers' for infections</a>&nbsp;“The authorities in Dhaka want to take me back, they are repeatedly sending letters to India seeking to have me sent back,” she said. “I will go myself.”&nbsp;India’s foreign ministry had said in April that it was examining Bangladesh’s extradition request and wanted to “engage constructively with the new government and further strengthen bilateral ties.”&nbsp;Hasina entered politics after the assassination of her father, the country’s founding leader, and much of her family in a military coup.She was credited with helping transform the economy of the Muslim-majority nation but faced accusations that her government suppressed dissent and weakened democratic institutions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>‘Cases filed against almost all of our leaders and workers’</h2>&nbsp;“Cases have been filed against almost all of our leaders and workers, and many of them are in hiding,” Hasina told Reuters. “So I said that this time I am returning home, and one day, all of you should come. All together, we will all surrender in court,” she said but did not share any specific date for her return.“I believe in justice and I feel that once proceedings start, it will be clear to the people how farcical the court is — and that I want to prove it.”&nbsp;Hasina said she had not held any talks with the authorities in Dhaka about her plans.“Democracy, voting rights, the political rights of the Awami League, and justice are not subjects for secret talks.”She also said she was not concerned about her probable imprisonment, saying she had been arrested several times before.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tamil-nadu-cm-vijay-blames-karur-police-for-41-stampede-deaths-alleges-conspiracy-1781171238989">CM Vijay blames Karur Police for 41 stampede deaths, alleges conspiracy</a><h2>‘When a government works for a long time, mistakes can happen‘</h2>&nbsp;Hasina said she fled Bangladesh in 2024 because of threats to her life as crowds advanced toward her residence.“When a government works for a long time, mistakes can happen, no government is above error,” she said. “But the right to judge the good and bad, the right and wrong of a government belongs to the people. I leave that judgment to the people.”&nbsp;“They may have convicted me, and I may not be able to contest elections. But why should they suspend the Awami League? If we have done badly, let the people decide,” she said.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sheikh-hasina-announces-return-former-bangladesh-pm-sets-december-deadline-1783681049002/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/sheikh-hasina-announces-return-former-bangladesh-pm-sets-december-deadline-1783681049002/embed</a>&nbsp;

Ousted Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina said that when a government works for a long time, it can make mistakes, but the right to judge the government rests with the people. Hasina added that she may be arrested on her return or even be killed, but will still go.

Ousted Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina, who is living in exile in India after being sentenced to death in Bangladesh and her Awami League party being banned, has said in an interview that she and senior party leaders voluntarily plan to return around December and surrender in court, adding that she faces a risk to her life and may be killed but would still go back to her home country. The 78-year-old leader told Reuters that she and other Awami League leaders want to return to the country and present themselves in court. “They may arrest me on my return, they may even kill me. Still, I have to go,” said Hasina. “My party leaders and workers are being subjected to tremendous repression. If death comes, I want it to come on my own soil, where my parents are buried and where their blood was shed.” Bangladesh’s war crimes court sentenced Hasina to death in absentia Hasina fled Bangladesh in 2024 after protests ended her 20 years in power across terms. In November, Bangladesh’s war crimes court sentenced her to death in absentia for ordering a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising. This is the first time Hasina has announced a timeline for her return with other exiled Awami League leaders including former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who also faces a death sentence. Also Read: Pakistan HIV outbreak: Health Minister Mustafa Kamal blames 'night party goers' for infections “The authorities in Dhaka want to take me back, they are repeatedly sending letters to India seeking to have me sent back,” she said. “I will go myself.” India’s foreign ministry had said in April that it was examining Bangladesh’s extradition request and wanted to “engage constructively with the new government and further strengthen bilateral ties.” Hasina entered politics after the assassination of her father, the country’s founding leader, and much of her family in a military coup. She was credited with helping transform the economy of the Muslim-majority nation but faced accusations that her government suppressed dissent and weakened democratic institutions. ‘Cases filed against almost all of our leaders and workers’ “Cases have been filed against almost all of our leaders and workers, and many of them are in hiding,” Hasina told Reuters. “So I said that this time I am returning home, and one day, all of you should come. All together, we will all surrender in court,” she said but did not share any specific date for her return. “I believe in justice and I feel that once proceedings start, it will be clear to the people how farcical the court is — and that I want to prove it.” Hasina said she had not held any talks with the authorities in Dhaka about her plans. “Democracy, voting rights, the political rights of the Awami League, and justice are not subjects for secret talks.” She also said she was not concerned about her probable imprisonment, saying she had been arrested several times before. Also Read: CM Vijay blames Karur Police for 41 stampede deaths, alleges conspiracy ‘When a government works for a long time, mistakes can happen‘ Hasina said she fled Bangladesh in 2024 because of threats to her life as crowds advanced toward her residence. “When a government works for a long time, mistakes can happen, no government is above error,” she said. “But the right to judge the good and bad, the right and wrong of a government belongs to the people. I leave that judgment to the people.” “They may have convicted me, and I may not be able to contest elections. But why should they suspend the Awami League? If we have done badly, let the people decide,” she said. https://www.wionews.com/videos/sheikh-hasina-announces-return-former-bangladesh-pm-sets-december-deadline-1783681049002/embed

Ousted Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina said that when a government works for a long time, it can make mistakes, but the right to judge the government rests with the people. Hasina added that she may be arrested on her return or even be killed, but will still go.

‘Want death to come on my own soil’: Sheikh Hasina says will return, surrender in December

Almost two years after being forced out of Bangladesh and taking refuge in India, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared that she will return to her country "this year". Despite being sentenced to death by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, Hasina expressed her plan to return. In a recent interview, Hasina dismissed the tribunal's verdict as politically motivated, alleging it was aimed at crippling her party, the Awami League, by removing its leadership.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-vows-to-defend-sovereignty-after-us-strikes-kuwait-bahrain-condemn-attacks-1782640588157">Iran vows to defend sovereignty after US strikes; Kuwait, Bahrain condemn attacks</a>&nbsp;"The verdict against me is not justice. It is part of an illegal, unconstitutional, and politically motivated process. The judiciary has been turned into an instrument of political revenge to make the Awami League leaderless. Such attempts have been made before. They failed then, and they will fail again," Hasina told NDTV.&nbsp;The tribunal convicted Hasina of crimes against humanity and handed her a death sentence in November last year. She has consistently rejected the proceedings, maintaining that the charges and verdict lack legitimacy.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wion-decodes-what-could-be-biggest-takeaways-from-japan-pm-sanae-takaichi-s-first-india-visit-1782550355906">What could be biggest outcomes of Japan PM Takaichi's India visit? Explained</a>&nbsp;Speaking about the possibility of returning despite the risks, Hasina said she had faced repeated threats throughout her political career and was not afraid of death.&nbsp;Recalling the assassination of her father, Bangladesh's founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and most of her family in 1975, Hasina said violence had shaped much of her life. She also referred to the 21 August grenade attack that targeted her during a political rally, saying numerous conspiracies had failed to silence her.&nbsp;"I do not fear death. In 1975, I lost my parents, my brothers, and almost my entire family. On 21 August, there was an attempt to kill me with grenades. Many conspiracies have been hatched against me. But breaking through every web of conspiracy, I stood beside the people of Bangladesh," she told the news outlet.

Ousted former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina announced plans to return home this year, dismissing her recent tribunal death sentence as a politically motivated attempt to cripple the Awami League.


Almost two years after being forced out of Bangladesh and taking refuge in India, former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has declared that she will return to her country "this year". Despite being sentenced to death by Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal, Hasina expressed her plan to return. In a recent interview, Hasina dismissed the tribunal's verdict as politically motivated, alleging it was aimed at crippling her party, the Awami League, by removing its leadership. Also read: Iran vows to defend sovereignty after US strikes; Kuwait, Bahrain condemn attacks "The verdict against me is not justice. It is part of an illegal, unconstitutional, and politically motivated process. The judiciary has been turned into an instrument of political revenge to make the Awami League leaderless. Such attempts have been made before. They failed then, and they will fail again," Hasina told NDTV. The tribunal convicted Hasina of crimes against humanity and handed her a death sentence in November last year. She has consistently rejected the proceedings, maintaining that the charges and verdict lack legitimacy. Also read: What could be biggest outcomes of Japan PM Takaichi's India visit? Explained Speaking about the possibility of returning despite the risks, Hasina said she had faced repeated threats throughout her political career and was not afraid of death. Recalling the assassination of her father, Bangladesh's founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and most of her family in 1975, Hasina said violence had shaped much of her life. She also referred to the 21 August grenade attack that targeted her during a political rally, saying numerous conspiracies had failed to silence her. "I do not fear death. In 1975, I lost my parents, my brothers, and almost my entire family. On 21 August, there was an attempt to kill me with grenades. Many conspiracies have been hatched against me. But breaking through every web of conspiracy, I stood beside the people of Bangladesh," she told the news outlet.

Ousted former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina announced plans to return home this year, dismissing her recent tribunal death sentence as a politically motivated attempt to cripple the Awami League.

Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh? Ousted PM sets a timeline, says ‘don’t fear death’

Bangladesh's former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has warned that the country risks slipping back into the “dark days” of 2001 to 2006, when the BNP was in power, citing the growing influence of militant and extremist forces. She made the remarks in an email interview. Hasina, who has been living in self-imposed exile in India since the fall of her Awami League government following student-led protests in 2024, also said she plans to return to Bangladesh “very soon.” However, she suggested that her return would depend on the restoration of political rights and the creation of a democratic environment. The Awami League remains banned in Bangladesh, while Hasina has been sentenced to death by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal.<h3>Vow to return&nbsp;</h3>Reflecting on her historic return from exile on May 17, 1981, Hasina made the remarks in an email interview with HT that her current return does not depend on a specific date but rather on the restoration of a democratic environment, freedom of expression, and the rule of law. Despite surviving 19 assassination attempts and currently facing a death sentence from Dhaka's International Crimes Tribunal, she vowed to return "very soon." Addressing the interim government's ban on the Awami League, Hasina dismissed it as a "temporary exercise of power" rooted in fear. She asserted that the Awami League is a party born from the masses, not from the "power of guns," and historical precedents show it routinely returns stronger. She noted that millions of grassroots supporters and leaders remain unified within Bangladesh despite ongoing arrests and persecution.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-america-s-republican-primaries-are-drawing-national-attention-ahead-of-the-2026-midterms-wion-decodes-1779182928403">Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention ahead of the 2026 midterms | WION Decodes</a><h3>Party reforms and exiled leadership</h3>When questioned about internal pushes for an "Awami League minus Sheikh Hasina," she stated that leadership is strictly determined by ideological activists through internal democratic procedures, not by the "prescriptions of conspirators." While acknowledging that the party never tolerates individual wrongdoing, she warned that rival political opponents frequently use the guise of "purification" to fracture opposition parties. Defending party members who fled the country, Hasina rejected the idea that they left voluntarily. She accused Muhammad Yunus’s interim government of executing a "silent political genocide," claiming nearly 600 activists were killed, 150,000 arrested on false charges, and thousands of pro-liberation state officials dismissed. She affirmed these exiled leaders are actively building international public opinion and will return once basic safety is guaranteed.<h3>Economic deterioration</h3>Hasina fiercely criticised the handling of the economy, comparing her administration's developmental track record with that of recent regimes. She highlighted that under her four terms since 2008, the national budget expanded from 70,000 crore taka to 797,000 crore taka, while per capita income rose from $482 to $2,784, driving mega-projects like the Padma Bridge. Conversely, she stated that the Yunus-led interim setup and the subsequent government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have driven the economy to the brink of collapse. She cited widespread mob violence that shuttered major industrial units, record-low foreign investment, and massive borrowing, amounting to 373,000 crore taka over 18 months by the interim setup, and nearly 100,000 crore taka in just three months under the BNP. This has triggered acute shortages of electricity, oil, gas, and fertilisers alongside skyrocketing commodity inflation.<h3>Geopolitical shifts and regional security</h3>Finally, Hasina expressed profound concern over Bangladesh's shifting foreign policy. While reiterating the Awami League's constitutional commitment to "friendship with all, malice toward none," she condemned the rising anti-India rhetoric used as a political tool by the Yunus and BNP administrations. Most critically, she warned of a resurgence in cross-border terrorism and militancy, drawing parallels to the 2001–2006 BNP-Jamaat alliance era when Bangladesh became a safe haven for extremists. She pointed out that since August 2024, top convicted terrorists have been released from prison, and individuals tied to militancy have entered Parliament, presenting an immediate threat to regional security.

In a recent interview from exile in India, former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina warned that the country risks returning to the "dark days" of extremist influence seen under past BNP rule. She also vowed to return "very soon" once democratic rights are restored.

Bangladesh's former prime minister, Sheikh Hasina, has warned that the country risks slipping back into the “dark days” of 2001 to 2006, when the BNP was in power, citing the growing influence of militant and extremist forces. She made the remarks in an email interview. Hasina, who has been living in self-imposed exile in India since the fall of her Awami League government following student-led protests in 2024, also said she plans to return to Bangladesh “very soon.” However, she suggested that her return would depend on the restoration of political rights and the creation of a democratic environment. The Awami League remains banned in Bangladesh, while Hasina has been sentenced to death by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal. Vow to return Reflecting on her historic return from exile on May 17, 1981, Hasina made the remarks in an email interview with HT that her current return does not depend on a specific date but rather on the restoration of a democratic environment, freedom of expression, and the rule of law. Despite surviving 19 assassination attempts and currently facing a death sentence from Dhaka's International Crimes Tribunal, she vowed to return "very soon." Addressing the interim government's ban on the Awami League, Hasina dismissed it as a "temporary exercise of power" rooted in fear. She asserted that the Awami League is a party born from the masses, not from the "power of guns," and historical precedents show it routinely returns stronger. She noted that millions of grassroots supporters and leaders remain unified within Bangladesh despite ongoing arrests and persecution. Also read: Why America’s Republican primaries are drawing national attention ahead of the 2026 midterms | WION Decodes Party reforms and exiled leadership When questioned about internal pushes for an "Awami League minus Sheikh Hasina," she stated that leadership is strictly determined by ideological activists through internal democratic procedures, not by the "prescriptions of conspirators." While acknowledging that the party never tolerates individual wrongdoing, she warned that rival political opponents frequently use the guise of "purification" to fracture opposition parties. Defending party members who fled the country, Hasina rejected the idea that they left voluntarily. She accused Muhammad Yunus’s interim government of executing a "silent political genocide," claiming nearly 600 activists were killed, 150,000 arrested on false charges, and thousands of pro-liberation state officials dismissed. She affirmed these exiled leaders are actively building international public opinion and will return once basic safety is guaranteed. Economic deterioration Hasina fiercely criticised the handling of the economy, comparing her administration's developmental track record with that of recent regimes. She highlighted that under her four terms since 2008, the national budget expanded from 70,000 crore taka to 797,000 crore taka, while per capita income rose from $482 to $2,784, driving mega-projects like the Padma Bridge. Conversely, she stated that the Yunus-led interim setup and the subsequent government under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman have driven the economy to the brink of collapse. She cited widespread mob violence that shuttered major industrial units, record-low foreign investment, and massive borrowing, amounting to 373,000 crore taka over 18 months by the interim setup, and nearly 100,000 crore taka in just three months under the BNP. This has triggered acute shortages of electricity, oil, gas, and fertilisers alongside skyrocketing commodity inflation. Geopolitical shifts and regional security Finally, Hasina expressed profound concern over Bangladesh's shifting foreign policy. While reiterating the Awami League's constitutional commitment to "friendship with all, malice toward none," she condemned the rising anti-India rhetoric used as a political tool by the Yunus and BNP administrations. Most critically, she warned of a resurgence in cross-border terrorism and militancy, drawing parallels to the 2001–2006 BNP-Jamaat alliance era when Bangladesh became a safe haven for extremists. She pointed out that since August 2024, top convicted terrorists have been released from prison, and individuals tied to militancy have entered Parliament, presenting an immediate threat to regional security.

In a recent interview from exile in India, former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina warned that the country risks returning to the "dark days" of extremist influence seen under past BNP rule. She also vowed to return "very soon" once democratic rights are restored.

Sheikh Hasina warns Bangladesh risks return to ‘dark days’, vows comeback

Bangladesh’s interim leader Muhammad Yunus steps down from his role, describing the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as a “day of liberation.” Yunus reflects on the political transition, democratic reforms, and what lies ahead for Bangladesh as the country navigates a crucial phase in its governance.

Bangladesh Interim Leader Yunus Steps Down, Calls Hasina Removal “Liberation”

Bangladesh voters have shown overwhelming support for sweeping constitutional reforms under the “July Charter,” aiming to curb prime ministerial power and reshape elections after the 2024 uprising. What changes could redefine the country’s future? Scroll down.

Bangladesh voters have shown overwhelming support for sweeping constitutional reforms under the “July Charter,” aiming to curb prime ministerial power and reshape elections after the 2024 uprising. What changes could redefine the country’s future? Scroll down.

Friday the 13th brings new dawn to Bangladesh: Citizens reject authoritarianism, say 'yes' to 'July Charter'

The ousted prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, called for the “cancellation of this voterless, illegal, and unconstitutional election" on Thursday (Feb 12). In a statement, Hasina thanked voters for “boycotting and rejecting this election without the Awami League". By 2 in the afternoon, the voter turnout was recorded as less than 50 per cent, as per the Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-afterlife-free-of-sin-shafiqur-rahman-s-party-offers-religious-promises-125-in-bribes-to-bangladesh-voters-in-secret-pamphlet-1770922125324">‘Afterlife free of sin’: Shafiqur Rahman’s party offers religious promises, $125 in bribes to Bangladesh voters in ‘secret’ pamphlet</a>&nbsp;After the polling ended, Hasina issued the statement and said that the number of voters on the voter list, especially in Dhaka, “has increased abnormally, which is highly questionable and unbelievable".&nbsp;“Today’s so-called election organised by Yunus, who took power through illegal and unconstitutional means, was essentially a carefully planned farce. Disregarding the people’s voting rights, democratic values, and the spirit of the constitution, a deceptive election was arranged without the Awami League and without voters," she said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/our-missiles-are-not-subject-of-negotiation-will-not-be-iran-dismisses-trump-s-desire-to-include-tehran-ballistic-missiles-in-nuclear-weapon-talks-1770814257366">‘Our missiles are not subject of negotiation, will not be’: Iran dismisses Trump’s desire to include Tehran ballistic missiles in nuke talks</a>&nbsp;She also said that the elections were marred by violence. “From the evening of February 11, this farce began through the capture of polling centres, gunfire, the widespread use of money to buy votes, stamping ballot papers, and taking agents’ signatures on result sheets. From the morning of February 12, voter turnout in most polling centers across the country was extremely low. Many polling stations in the capital and other parts of the country were completely empty of voters," she further said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-did-you-torture-her-emails-of-jeffrey-epstein-and-martin-nowak-reveal-shocking-details-all-about-6-5-million-to-harvard-and-private-travels-1770656438037">‘Did you torture her?’: Emails of Jeffrey Epstein and Martin Nowak reveal shocking details. All about ‘$6.5 million to Harvard’ and private travels</a>

Sheikh Hasina rejected Bangladesh’s 2026 election as “illegal and unconstitutional,” citing low turnout, alleged voter list irregularities, and violence, while thanking Awami League supporters for boycotting the polls.

The ousted prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, called for the “cancellation of this voterless, illegal, and unconstitutional election" on Thursday (Feb 12). In a statement, Hasina thanked voters for “boycotting and rejecting this election without the Awami League". By 2 in the afternoon, the voter turnout was recorded as less than 50 per cent, as per the Bangladesh Election Commission (EC) Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed. Also read: ‘Afterlife free of sin’: Shafiqur Rahman’s party offers religious promises, $125 in bribes to Bangladesh voters in ‘secret’ pamphlet After the polling ended, Hasina issued the statement and said that the number of voters on the voter list, especially in Dhaka, “has increased abnormally, which is highly questionable and unbelievable". “Today’s so-called election organised by Yunus, who took power through illegal and unconstitutional means, was essentially a carefully planned farce. Disregarding the people’s voting rights, democratic values, and the spirit of the constitution, a deceptive election was arranged without the Awami League and without voters," she said. Also read: ‘Our missiles are not subject of negotiation, will not be’: Iran dismisses Trump’s desire to include Tehran ballistic missiles in nuke talks She also said that the elections were marred by violence. “From the evening of February 11, this farce began through the capture of polling centres, gunfire, the widespread use of money to buy votes, stamping ballot papers, and taking agents’ signatures on result sheets. From the morning of February 12, voter turnout in most polling centers across the country was extremely low. Many polling stations in the capital and other parts of the country were completely empty of voters," she further said. Also read: ‘Did you torture her?’: Emails of Jeffrey Epstein and Martin Nowak reveal shocking details. All about ‘$6.5 million to Harvard’ and private travels

Sheikh Hasina rejected Bangladesh’s 2026 election as “illegal and unconstitutional,” citing low turnout, alleged voter list irregularities, and violence, while thanking Awami League supporters for boycotting the polls.

‘Voterless, illegal, unconstitutional’: Sheikh Hasina calls for ‘cancellation’ of Bangladesh election

&nbsp;A special court in Dhaka on Monday (Feb 1) sentenced former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to 10 years of imprisonment in two separate corruption cases linked with alleged irregularities in the allocation of government land under the Purbachal New Town project. Judge Mohammed Rabiul Alam of the Special Judge’s Court-4 also handed down seven-year prison sentences to her niece, Azmina Siddiq, and a nephew, Radwan Mujib Siddiq.&nbsp;Tulip Sadiq, Hasina's niece and British Member of Parliament, also received a four-year sentence. The verdict came after Bangladesh's anti-corruption body filed the cases alleging that Hasina colluded with government officials to illegally secure six plots in the Purbachal New Town Project, near Dhaka, for herself and her family members despite their ineligibility under government regulations.&nbsp;Critics have accused the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of pursuing a political vendetta against the former prime minister. Hasina's party, the Awami League, had been banned from carrying out political activities and participating in the upcoming February 12 elections.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-muhammad-yunus-is-corrupt-power-hungry-traitor-hasina-calls-for-overthrow-of-foreign-serving-puppet-regime-in-bangladesh-1769188106673">‘Muhammad Yunus is corrupt, power-hungry traitor’: Hasina calls for overthrow of foreign-serving puppet regime in Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;In November last year, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) sentenced Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia for crimes against humanity committed during the violent crackdown on student-led protests in July and August 2024. The tribunal found her guilty of being the "mastermind" behind a state-orchestrated attack that involved the use of lethal weapons, helicopters, and drones against unarmed civilians, resulting in approximately 1,400 deaths. Hasina has been living in exile in India since 5 August 2024, after the end of her 16-year tenure as Prime Minister, following violent protests. She was ousted in a series of violent nationwide protests involving arson, clashes with security forces, multiple deaths and widespread unrest that paralysed Bangladesh’s political and administrative system.

Critics have accused the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of pursuing a political vendetta against the former prime minister.

A special court in Dhaka on Monday (Feb 1) sentenced former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to 10 years of imprisonment in two separate corruption cases linked with alleged irregularities in the allocation of government land under the Purbachal New Town project. Judge Mohammed Rabiul Alam of the Special Judge’s Court-4 also handed down seven-year prison sentences to her niece, Azmina Siddiq, and a nephew, Radwan Mujib Siddiq. Tulip Sadiq, Hasina's niece and British Member of Parliament, also received a four-year sentence. The verdict came after Bangladesh's anti-corruption body filed the cases alleging that Hasina colluded with government officials to illegally secure six plots in the Purbachal New Town Project, near Dhaka, for herself and her family members despite their ineligibility under government regulations. Critics have accused the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of pursuing a political vendetta against the former prime minister. Hasina's party, the Awami League, had been banned from carrying out political activities and participating in the upcoming February 12 elections. Also Read: ‘Muhammad Yunus is corrupt, power-hungry traitor’: Hasina calls for overthrow of foreign-serving puppet regime in Bangladesh In November last year, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) sentenced Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia for crimes against humanity committed during the violent crackdown on student-led protests in July and August 2024. The tribunal found her guilty of being the "mastermind" behind a state-orchestrated attack that involved the use of lethal weapons, helicopters, and drones against unarmed civilians, resulting in approximately 1,400 deaths. Hasina has been living in exile in India since 5 August 2024, after the end of her 16-year tenure as Prime Minister, following violent protests. She was ousted in a series of violent nationwide protests involving arson, clashes with security forces, multiple deaths and widespread unrest that paralysed Bangladesh’s political and administrative system.

Critics have accused the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of pursuing a political vendetta against the former prime minister.

From death row to jail: Sheikh Hasina sentenced to 10 years on corruption charges

In this exclusive interview with Zee 24 Ghanta, a sister publication of WION, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addresses Bangladesh’s deepening political crisis, outlining priorities to restore constitutional governance, revive the economy, protect minorities, and rebuild democratic institutions.<h3>1. What will be your priority after landing in Bangladesh?</h3>My priority will be the restoration of constitutional governance and the rule of law. Bangladesh has endured months of lawlessness, mob violence, arbitrary detention, and the systematic dismantling of our democratic institutions. Over 152,000 people remain imprisoned on fabricated political charges, enduring brutal conditions and torture. Their release must be immediate. Beyond that, we must rebuild what Yunus has destroyed. Our fast-growing economy has stalled, and external investment all but ceased. Employment opportunities for youth, farmers, and labourers have vanished. The secular foundations of our republic have been attacked, and religious minorities live in fear every day. There is no rule of law in the country; what exists instead is mob terrorism. People from all walks of life are being persecuted by the extremist forces that Yunus has empowered. These forces, many of which are linked to proscribed terrorist groups, have been granted total impunity and proudly admit to the atrocities they committed. Bangladesh needs a government with a democratic mandate to heal these wounds, restore confidence, and set our country back on the path of progress. The Awami League is prepared to serve, whether in government or opposition, but we cannot do so while banned and persecuted.<h3>2. Are Tariq Rahman and BNP trustworthy?</h3>The BNP and the Awami League have a long history as parliamentary opponents. When we governed, they opposed us; when they governed, we opposed them. This is how democracy functions. Healthy opposition strengthens governance. However, we must not forget the facts. Tarique Rahman spent 17 years in comfortable exile in London after being found guilty of abetting the embezzlement of public funds. Leadership requires accountability and presence, not direction from abroad followed by sudden re-entry when conditions appear favourable. What concerns me more is the BNP's consistent willingness to align with extremist elements when it serves short-term interests. Already, we see BNP activists intimidating voters on their doorsteps, forcing them to vote under threats of violence and destruction. This is not democracy; it is coercion. If the BNP forms the next government, I would urge them to restore proper parliamentary democracy by lifting the ban on the Awami League and allowing us to serve as legitimate opposition. A parliament without genuine opposition is not a parliament at all.<h3>3. Terrorist Osman Hadi was termed a martyr and was buried near Kazi Nazrul Islam. How do you look at this? National Poet and a terrorist lying side by side</h3>Kazi Nazrul Islam stood for rebellion against oppression, for communal harmony, for the dignity of the oppressed. The violence that followed Sharif Osman Hadi’s death is the very antithesis of this. Every death associated with this violence is a loss. But the glorification of those who participated in violence and destruction is deeply troubling. Sharif Osman Hadi's death arose from electoral rivalries among BNP, Jamaat, and NCP candidates over the Dhaka-8 constituency. Rather than conducting a credible investigation, the authorities allowed mobs to burn newspaper offices with journalists inside and attack diplomatic missions. What concerns me most is the way these mobs sought to exact vengeance by attacking one of the fundamental pillars of our society: freedom of expression. During our time in government, we encouraged freedom of expression. Journalists were free to write without fear of intimidation or reprisals. Political opposition was welcomed as a hallmark of a healthy, functioning democracy. The glorification of this sort of violence by an unelected head of state who came to power by killing people, burning state property, and creating panic across the country is no surprise.<h3>4. India's EAM S Jaishankar went to Khaleda Zia's last rites. How do you look at the BNP and India's relationship?</h3>India's gesture was one of diplomatic courtesy and respect for a former head of government. Khaleda Zia’s role in political life is undeniable, and her contributions to the nation were significant. I extend my condolences to her family and to those who mourn her. However, India's fundamental interests remain unchanged. India wants a reliable partner in Bangladesh: one that can maintain stability, protect minorities, honour commitments, and uphold regional cooperation. The current situation in which extremist mobs terrorise religious minorities, threaten journalists, and attack diplomatic premises serves neither country. The ties that bind our countries run deep and have been forged through decades of careful cooperation and mutual respect. I have faith that the natural partnership between our countries will one day be restored.<h3>5. How will you restructure your party, and what will be the role of the new generation inside your party wing?</h3>The Awami League has never belonged to one family. It belongs to the tens of millions of Bangladeshis who believe in democracy, freedom, and the values of 1971. Our party emerged from the struggle for independence and remains rooted in every village and neighbourhood. This crisis has shown us where renewal is needed. We need leaders who connect with every generation, who understand the challenges facing young people in cities and rural villages alike, who can navigate the digital age while honouring our founding principles. The demand for fresh voices is justified, and we are listening. The achievements of our government were never the accomplishments of any single individual. They belonged to our party workers and to the Bangladeshi people who placed their trust in us nine times. That collective strength remains. Millions of Bangladeshis continue to place their trust in us and would vote for us again if we were allowed to participate in the upcoming elections. But meaningful restructuring requires democratic conditions to exist. You cannot renew a political party while it is banned, while thousands of our supporters are arbitrarily detained and subject to torture, and while membership itself is treated as a crime.<h3>6. How did you spend the last year? Do you connect with your party regularly? Do you think it gives you extra strength?</h3>I have watched from afar as everything we built has been systematically dismantled: the economic progress, the religious harmony, the institutional stability. It has been painful to witness the suffering of our people, the persecution of our supporters, and the attacks on minorities. But I have also witnessed extraordinary courage. Despite facing day-to-day harassment, imprisonment, and torture, Awami League supporters have refused to abandon their beliefs. Journalists have continued writing the truth about the realities of life in Bangladesh today despite attacks on their freedoms. Ordinary Bangladeshis have dared to speak out despite the risks. Staying connected with our party and our people has been essential. The Awami League is not merely a political organisation; it represents the spirit of 1971, the dream of a secular, democratic, prosperous Bangladesh. That dream cannot be extinguished by persecution. I remain patient because I know that regimes built on fear and exclusion do not endure. Bangladesh belongs to its people, and eventually, they will reclaim it.

Sheikh Hasina vows to restore democracy, free detainees, revive the economy, protect minorities, and rebuild institutions amid the crisis in Bangladesh

In this exclusive interview with Zee 24 Ghanta, a sister publication of WION, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina addresses Bangladesh’s deepening political crisis, outlining priorities to restore constitutional governance, revive the economy, protect minorities, and rebuild democratic institutions. 1. What will be your priority after landing in Bangladesh? My priority will be the restoration of constitutional governance and the rule of law. Bangladesh has endured months of lawlessness, mob violence, arbitrary detention, and the systematic dismantling of our democratic institutions. Over 152,000 people remain imprisoned on fabricated political charges, enduring brutal conditions and torture. Their release must be immediate. Beyond that, we must rebuild what Yunus has destroyed. Our fast-growing economy has stalled, and external investment all but ceased. Employment opportunities for youth, farmers, and labourers have vanished. The secular foundations of our republic have been attacked, and religious minorities live in fear every day. There is no rule of law in the country; what exists instead is mob terrorism. People from all walks of life are being persecuted by the extremist forces that Yunus has empowered. These forces, many of which are linked to proscribed terrorist groups, have been granted total impunity and proudly admit to the atrocities they committed. Bangladesh needs a government with a democratic mandate to heal these wounds, restore confidence, and set our country back on the path of progress. The Awami League is prepared to serve, whether in government or opposition, but we cannot do so while banned and persecuted. 2. Are Tariq Rahman and BNP trustworthy? The BNP and the Awami League have a long history as parliamentary opponents. When we governed, they opposed us; when they governed, we opposed them. This is how democracy functions. Healthy opposition strengthens governance. However, we must not forget the facts. Tarique Rahman spent 17 years in comfortable exile in London after being found guilty of abetting the embezzlement of public funds. Leadership requires accountability and presence, not direction from abroad followed by sudden re-entry when conditions appear favourable. What concerns me more is the BNP's consistent willingness to align with extremist elements when it serves short-term interests. Already, we see BNP activists intimidating voters on their doorsteps, forcing them to vote under threats of violence and destruction. This is not democracy; it is coercion. If the BNP forms the next government, I would urge them to restore proper parliamentary democracy by lifting the ban on the Awami League and allowing us to serve as legitimate opposition. A parliament without genuine opposition is not a parliament at all. 3. Terrorist Osman Hadi was termed a martyr and was buried near Kazi Nazrul Islam. How do you look at this? National Poet and a terrorist lying side by side Kazi Nazrul Islam stood for rebellion against oppression, for communal harmony, for the dignity of the oppressed. The violence that followed Sharif Osman Hadi’s death is the very antithesis of this. Every death associated with this violence is a loss. But the glorification of those who participated in violence and destruction is deeply troubling. Sharif Osman Hadi's death arose from electoral rivalries among BNP, Jamaat, and NCP candidates over the Dhaka-8 constituency. Rather than conducting a credible investigation, the authorities allowed mobs to burn newspaper offices with journalists inside and attack diplomatic missions. What concerns me most is the way these mobs sought to exact vengeance by attacking one of the fundamental pillars of our society: freedom of expression. During our time in government, we encouraged freedom of expression. Journalists were free to write without fear of intimidation or reprisals. Political opposition was welcomed as a hallmark of a healthy, functioning democracy. The glorification of this sort of violence by an unelected head of state who came to power by killing people, burning state property, and creating panic across the country is no surprise. 4. India's EAM S Jaishankar went to Khaleda Zia's last rites. How do you look at the BNP and India's relationship? India's gesture was one of diplomatic courtesy and respect for a former head of government. Khaleda Zia’s role in political life is undeniable, and her contributions to the nation were significant. I extend my condolences to her family and to those who mourn her. However, India's fundamental interests remain unchanged. India wants a reliable partner in Bangladesh: one that can maintain stability, protect minorities, honour commitments, and uphold regional cooperation. The current situation in which extremist mobs terrorise religious minorities, threaten journalists, and attack diplomatic premises serves neither country. The ties that bind our countries run deep and have been forged through decades of careful cooperation and mutual respect. I have faith that the natural partnership between our countries will one day be restored. 5. How will you restructure your party, and what will be the role of the new generation inside your party wing? The Awami League has never belonged to one family. It belongs to the tens of millions of Bangladeshis who believe in democracy, freedom, and the values of 1971. Our party emerged from the struggle for independence and remains rooted in every village and neighbourhood. This crisis has shown us where renewal is needed. We need leaders who connect with every generation, who understand the challenges facing young people in cities and rural villages alike, who can navigate the digital age while honouring our founding principles. The demand for fresh voices is justified, and we are listening. The achievements of our government were never the accomplishments of any single individual. They belonged to our party workers and to the Bangladeshi people who placed their trust in us nine times. That collective strength remains. Millions of Bangladeshis continue to place their trust in us and would vote for us again if we were allowed to participate in the upcoming elections. But meaningful restructuring requires democratic conditions to exist. You cannot renew a political party while it is banned, while thousands of our supporters are arbitrarily detained and subject to torture, and while membership itself is treated as a crime. 6. How did you spend the last year? Do you connect with your party regularly? Do you think it gives you extra strength? I have watched from afar as everything we built has been systematically dismantled: the economic progress, the religious harmony, the institutional stability. It has been painful to witness the suffering of our people, the persecution of our supporters, and the attacks on minorities. But I have also witnessed extraordinary courage. Despite facing day-to-day harassment, imprisonment, and torture, Awami League supporters have refused to abandon their beliefs. Journalists have continued writing the truth about the realities of life in Bangladesh today despite attacks on their freedoms. Ordinary Bangladeshis have dared to speak out despite the risks. Staying connected with our party and our people has been essential. The Awami League is not merely a political organisation; it represents the spirit of 1971, the dream of a secular, democratic, prosperous Bangladesh. That dream cannot be extinguished by persecution. I remain patient because I know that regimes built on fear and exclusion do not endure. Bangladesh belongs to its people, and eventually, they will reclaim it.

Sheikh Hasina vows to restore democracy, free detainees, revive the economy, protect minorities, and rebuild institutions amid the crisis in Bangladesh

'My first priority is restoring constitutional governance': Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina to Zee Network

Ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, speaking via an audio message from exile, defended her record and slammed the interim government under Muhammad Yunus, calling her situation a case of “democracy in exile.”

Sheikh Hasina Calls Yunus A 'Murderous Fascist,' Bangladesh Accuses Hasina Of 'Inciting Violence'

Bangladesh's Awami League has rejected the February 12, 2026, election schedule, slamming interim leader Muhammad Yunus' government as biased. Exiled former PM Sheikh Hasina issued a stark audio warning against the polls in a leaked message.


Awami League Rejects Feb 12 Polls, Hasina Slams Yunus

sheikh-hasina

Sheikh Hasina, News on Sheikh Hasina, stories on Sheikh Hasina, articles on Sheikh Hasina, Sheikh Hasina stories at Wion, Sheikh Hasina news, Sheikh Hasina latest news

sheikh hasina

'I want to return to my homeland': Sheikh Hasina exclusive

Hasina says she reads father’s unfinished memoir while planning Dhaka return

Dhaka: No dates finalised for PM Rahman's visit

Uneasy calm prevails after Sheik Hasina's August 5 address

Pakistan Politician Controversy | Hasina's Address | Thailand Football Tragedy | Social Media Buzz

Hasina's Son Warns Bangladesh Is Becoming 'Another Pakistan' | Raises ISI Concerns

Sajeeb Wazed raises Indian security concerns, calls Bangladesh a 'failed state'

‘Organised groups turned students’ stir into violent protest’: Sheikh Hasina

Dhaka raises Sheikh Hasina’s planned address with Indian envoy

Sheikh Hasina vows return to Bangladesh by December

‘Madrasas shouldn’t exist’: Taslima Nasreen wants Bangladesh to be secular

Sheikh Hasina to break silence in first public appearance since ouster

US vs Iran Escalation | Japan Quake | Paper Leak Bill Passed | Iraq Condemns US-Saudi Strikes

India Passes Anti-Paper Leak Bill | Rahul Gandhi vs BJP | US-Saudi Strikes Iraq | Japan Earthquake

Bangladesh President Mohammad Shahabuddin resigns | political shake-up ahead of Hasina's return

Bangladesh President Mohammad Shahabuddin likely to resign | Sheikh Hasina return looms

Why Sheikh Hasina wants to return to Bangladesh despite death sentence

Bangladesh freezes $6.19bn linked to Sheikh Hasina, family in massive crackdown

Sheikh Hasina return row: Bangladesh tribunal demands surrender amid political tensions | Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina & Her Colleagues to Return to Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina announces return: Former Bangladesh PM sets December deadline

‘Want death to come on my own soil’: Sheikh Hasina says will return in December

Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh? Ousted PM sets a timeline

Sheikh Hasina warns Bangladesh risks return to ‘dark days’, vows comeback

Bangladesh Interim Leader Yunus Steps Down, Calls Hasina Removal “Liberation”

Friday the 13th brings new dawn to B'desh: Citizens say yes to 'July Charter'