India has reportedly engaged in diplomatic efforts to influence the United States' approach towards Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, amid growing concerns about her potential ouster. According to a report by *The Washington Post*, Indian officials asked their US counterparts to ease the pressure on Hasina, highlighting the significant security risks that could arise if the opposition came to power through open elections.
The United States had been critical of Hasina's government, particularly for its actions leading up to the national elections scheduled for January 2024. The US administration imposed sanctions on a Bangladeshi police unit under Hasina's leadership, accusing it of carrying out extrajudicial kidnappings and killings. Additionally, the US threatened to impose visa restrictions on Bangladeshis involved in undermining democracy or committing human rights violations.
Indian officials, however, urged the US to consider the broader implications of pushing for democratic reforms in Bangladesh. They argued that an opposition victory could potentially transform Bangladesh into a hub for Islamist groups, posing a direct threat to India's national security. One Indian official, speaking anonymously, emphasized that the situation in Bangladesh was a core concern for India, requiring strategic consensus with the US to protect its interests.
This lobbying effort reportedly led the Biden administration to soften its stance on Sheikh Hasina's regime, opting to shelve further sanctions. While this move disappointed some in Bangladesh who were hoping for stronger international pressure on Hasina, US officials explained that it was a calculated decision influenced by India's concerns.
The situation in Bangladesh remains a point of reflection for policymakers in both New Delhi and Washington, particularly after protesters defied an army-imposed curfew, leading to Hasina's forced departure to India. The handling of the crisis has sparked debates within the Biden administration, with some officials advocating for a tougher approach while others argued for a more measured response, mindful of India's influence and the broader regional implications.
The complex dynamics in Bangladesh have underscored the delicate balance that both the US and India must strike in addressing human rights concerns while maintaining strategic partnerships. As the January elections approach, the international community will continue to closely monitor the developments in Bangladesh and the ongoing diplomatic interactions between India and the US.
Â
