Sheikh Hasina Seeks Asylum in UK After Fleeing Bangladesh Unrest

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will remain in India until she secures political asylum in a third country, most likely the UK. Hasina, who arrived in India late Monday, had initially planned to fly to London via New Delhi but canceled due to unforeseen issues. Reports indicate that India will provide comprehensive logistical support to Hasina during her asylum process. She is accompanied by her sister Rehana, a UK citizen, while the UK government has yet to comment on her asylum request.

Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar is set to address Parliament today about the dramatic developments in Bangladesh. Jaishankar has already briefed Prime Minister Modi on the ongoing situation in the neighboring country. Earlier, Hasina landed at Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad, where she met with NSA Ajit Doval. Hasina abruptly resigned on Monday and fled the country with her sister following violent unrest over government job quotas in Bangladesh.

In response to the turmoil, the Bangladesh Army has assumed control and announced the formation of an interim government. Shortly after taking control, Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin ordered the release of jailed former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Zia, the first female Prime Minister of Bangladesh and Hasina’s arch-rival, had been imprisoned on corruption charges since 2018.