The Indian security establishment might not have been prepared for the mass uprising in Bangladesh, but the sudden turn of events and ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s landing in New Delhi on August 5 have prompted the security brass in Delhi to put their best foot forward. Efforts are afoot to ensure that the interim government in Bangladesh does not have objections to Hasina’s stay in India.
With Hasina and Bangladeshi officials in New Delhi weighing the pros and cons of her shifting to another country, officials in New Delhi are moving swiftly to ensure that the time she spends on Indian soil is safe and does not become an irritant for the interim government.
Sources said it is important to take the next government on board if a decision is taken to extend Hasina’s stay, and no time is being wasted to ensure stability in ties as well as regional cooperation.
New Delhi is keeping in mind the short term and long term measures that need to be taken for regional security while ensuring that Hasina remains protected on its soil.
The move comes at a time when Hasina will explore options and New Delhi will keep in mind that the host country, under any circumstances, is not put under pressure to extradite her at any stage.
While the US’s stand on the developments has become clear, the option of UK is also ruled out .
“The US has been citing concerns of democracy and imposing visa restrictions,” said an official, ruling out her entry into Western Europe where she may face an uncertain future. This being the key concern, sources said, there is no hurry to shift base.
While Dubai emerged as a destination being considered for a longer duration of stay, the option of Abu Dhabi is also being explored while staying in India isn’t being ruled out yet.
At the moment, the Indian security establishment is prepared to host its guest for as long as she desires since she feels at home given a similar experience in 1975.
This time, the arrangements were made even before she landed and the “safe house” was made comfortable for her stay, giving her the option of extending the halt indefinitely or even flying out the moment she desires.
