PM Modi Chairs Security Meeting Amid Bangladesh Unrest
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a crucial Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting at his residence on Lok Kalyan Marg, New Delhi, in response to escalating tensions in Bangladesh. This high-level meeting, held on Monday, was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and senior officials. The focus was on the latest developments in Bangladesh, following mass protests and the arrival of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India.
#WATCH | The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) met today at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg. In the meeting, PM Modi was briefed about the situation in Bangladesh. pic.twitter.com/oTzFp9w6WX
— ANI (@ANI) August 5, 2024
Sheikh Hasina’s Arrival in India
Sheikh Hasina arrived at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad on Monday evening, having resigned from her position amid escalating protests in Bangladesh. She engaged in discussions with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, focusing on the current turmoil in Bangladesh and her future actions. Sources revealed that the Indian Air Force, along with other security agencies, has heightened security measures, and Hasina is being moved to a secure location.
Escalating Protests in Bangladesh
Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar briefed PM Modi on the critical political situation in Bangladesh. The protests, initially sparked by demands to end a quota system for government jobs, have evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations. Reports indicate that at least 95 people, including 14 police officers, were killed, and hundreds were injured in clashes in Dhaka on Sunday.
Sheikh Hasina, along with her sister, left Bangladesh on Monday morning amidst the violence. Protesters stormed the Gono Bhaban, the Prime Minister’s residence, further intensifying the unrest. Bangladesh Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman announced in a televised address that an interim government would be formed, signaling a period of political transition.
Response from Anti-Discrimination Movement
Nahid Islam, coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement, stated that the framework for an interim national government would be formulated within 24 hours. This movement, which initially sought the resignation of Hasina and her cabinet, has significantly influenced the political landscape, underscoring the urgent need for resolution.
India’s Strategic Response
In light of these developments, the Indian Air Force has put its personnel on alert across the eastern sector. The security outside the Bangladesh High Commission in Delhi has been significantly enhanced to manage any potential threats. The situation remains fluid, with Indian authorities closely monitoring the unfolding events and ensuring the safety and security of Sheikh Hasina during her stay in India.
India’s strategic response to the Bangladesh crisis underscores the importance of regional stability and the commitment to supporting democratic processes and peaceful transitions in neighboring countries.
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