All-party meet on Bangladesh: Rahul asks if foreign hand was involved

NEW DELHI: External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday expressed hope that there was a “unanimous support” cutting across party lines after he convened an all-party meeting to brief about the escalating situation in Bangladesh, which descended into turmoil following massive street protests over job quotas forcing Sheikh Hasina to resign and flee the country.
Hasina arrived in India on Monday evening and, according to media reports, is expected to continue her journey to London.
Jaishankar took it to X and sharing the details of the meeting, he said “Briefed an All-Party meeting in Parliament today about the ongoing developments in Bangladesh. Appreciate the unanimous support and understanding that was extended.”
During the meeting, Jaishankar told the leaders that the central government was in touch with the Bangladesh Army as well. He said that it is a prevailing situation and the government will take appropriate action at the right time, according to ANI sources.
The meeting included Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and AICC president K C Venugopal. Additionally, Central Government representatives including Union home minister Amit Shah, defense minister Rajnath Singh, BJP president J P Nadda, and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju were present.
Rahul Gandhi inquired about India’s long-term and short-term strategies concerning the situation in Bangladesh. The government responded that the situation is evolving and will be continuously analysed. He also questioned the government about the potential involvement of foreign actors, to which the government replied that all possible angles are being investigated.
Rahul Gandhi also questioned the government on the possible involvement of a foreign hand. The central government said that all possible angles were being looked into.
During the meeting, leaders were informed that there are approximately 20,000 Indian nationals in Bangladesh. According to ANI sources, 8,000 Indian nationals have returned so far. Jaishankar assured that the Indian government is in constant communication with Indian nationals and that the High Commission in Bangladesh continues to operate.
The leaders were also informed that the safety of minorities is a priority and that measures are being taken to protect them, according to sources from the all-party meeting.