India has clarified its position regarding the recent media interaction of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi.

The Ministry of External Affairs stressed that the Government had no role in the event, which was hosted independently by a private press organisation.

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal explained during the weekly briefing that India does not endorse the remarks made at the forum. He emphasised that the Government had no involvement in the press conference and does not support any views expressed there, particularly those concerning the duly constituted Government of Bangladesh.

The event was organised by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia, a private media entity. This clarification came after Hasina’s first virtual press briefing from New Delhi since her departure from Bangladesh in 2024. During the interaction, she declared her determination to return to her homeland in December despite the risks of arrest, imprisonment, or threats to her life.

Hasina stated that she could not remain abroad while her supporters and fellow citizens continued to suffer. She vowed to return to her people, saying that whatever fate awaited her, she would go back in December. Her remarks came two years after stepping down following the student-led movement in 2024 that ended her administration.

The live media interaction provoked strong criticism from Dhaka. Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement describing the press briefing as an affront to the country’s sovereignty. It warned that such events could undermine efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.

The statement, released on the second anniversary of the July Revolution, accused Hasina of using the platform to unleash venomous vitriol against Bangladesh and its citizens. It described the event conducted from Indian soil as a grievous insult to the martyrs of the revolution.

Prior to the event, Jaiswal had already affirmed India’s complete detachment from the private briefing. He reiterated that the Government had no involvement whatsoever and did not endorse any views expressed at the forum.

This development follows diplomatic signals from Dhaka. Bangladesh Foreign Affairs Advisor Humayun Kabir requested New Delhi’s assistance in preventing Awami League figures, including Hasina, from using Indian soil to make political remarks. Local media reports highlighted this request as part of Dhaka’s broader concerns about political activities being conducted from abroad.

The clarification by India underscores its effort to distance itself from the controversy and to maintain a neutral stance in the sensitive matter. It also reflects New Delhi’s attempt to preserve bilateral relations while addressing Dhaka’s concerns about sovereignty and political interference.

ANI