Pak Involvement In Bangladesh?: Jaishankar Responds To Rahul Gandhi's Question (Photo @DrSJaishankar)

During the crucial all-party meeting held in the wake of the prevailing situation in Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s resignation amid massive protests, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi posed three questions before the external affairs minister, S. Jaishankar, including the potential Pakistan involvement.

As one of the close and friendly neighbours of the country, India is closely monitoring the developments in Bangladesh. Since Shaikh Hasina came to power, India’s relationship with Bangladesh has been more stronger, with increased cooperation in investments, businesses, and security areas.

During the meeting, the Congress leader sought the government’s short-term and long-term strategy in dealing with diplomatic relationships with the potential power shift in Dhaka. The minister said that the government is developing the situation and analysing it closely so that it can make further moves accordingly.

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To Rahul Gandhi’s question seeking clarification regarding foreign involvement in the ongoing development of Bangladesh, especially Pakistan, the government replied that it is investigating if there is any interference. A Pakistani diplomat had been frequently changing his social media display picture to reflect the changes in Bangladesh as protests stormed the country, leading to the Prime Minister’s ouster, NDTV reported, citing a source.

The Rai Bareilly MP also asked if the center foresaw the dramatic turn of events in its neighboring country. The minister responded that it is monitoring the situation.

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After the meeting, the External Affairs Minister lauded the opposition parties’ support in coordinating the diplomatic developments. In a post on X, Jaishankar wrote, “Briefed an all-party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. I appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended.”

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

Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended. pic.twitter.com/tiitk5M5zn

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2024

The opposition parties, including Congress, have declared their support for the government in dealing with the scenario. Congress MP Karti Chidambaram, after the meeting, said that the country’s primary concern is the safety of Indian nationals in Bangladesh and the situation at the borders. He also called the External Affairs Minister briefing all party leaders a welcome step. “We are with the government as far as national security is concerned,” NDTV quoted the Congress leader.

Forced by the protest, the former Bangladesh Prime Minister fled to India and reportedly remains in the country. During the meeting, attended by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Home Minister Amit Shah, the Center also said that it is in contact with the Bangladesh Army, which announced the formation of an interim government after Hasina’s resignation.