UK’s Response to Reports of Sheikh Hasina Seeking Asylum

New Delhi:

The UK government – currently led by Sir Keir Starmer after Labour’s significant victory last month – also stated that individuals seeking refuge must do so “in the initial secure nation they arrive at”.

“The UK has a proud history of offering defense for those in need. Nevertheless, there is no clause for an individual to be permitted to journey to the UK to request asylum or short-term shelter.”

However, sources suggest that a formal asylum appeal is being reviewed.

Mrs Hasina, 76, was compelled to step down as Prime Minister on Monday night after prolonged demonstrations over a job quota claimed the lives of over 300 individuals. She departed Dhaka in a military plane – allegedly following a 45-minute ultimatum from the Bangladesh Army – and initially flew to an IAF base in Uttar Pradesh.

Sources indicate that she is currently under the “protective care” of Indian intelligence agencies.

She is accompanied by her younger sister, Sheikh Rehana, who is a citizen of the UK, a factor that could be advantageous for seeking asylum in that nation. Additionally, her niece, Tulip Siddiq, is a British Labour parliamentarian.

Mrs Hasina’s daughter, Saima Wazed, is situated in Delhi as the regional head for the World Health Organization. However, this might not facilitate her asylum application as she is employed by an international organization.

Indian Government’s Stance

This morning, Bangladeshi publication Daily Sun cited unofficial sources indicating that India has authorized an “interim stay”, during which Mrs Hasina will receive extensive logistical support.

Reportedly, this arrangement is temporary and pending relocation to Britain.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been briefed on the situation in Bangladesh, and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has engaged with leaders of all major political factions in the country.

During this interaction, Mr Jaishankar mentioned a “plot” to overthrow Mrs Hasina’s administration. This response was in reaction to a query by Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, who inquired about the potential involvement of foreign powers, particularly Pakistan, in the recent dramatic events in Dhaka.

The occurrences in Bangladesh pose a challenge for India, especially if the UK denies Sheikh Hasina’s asylum request. India also aims to avoid being perceived as openly supporting the deposed leader as it could complicate the nation’s relations with the new Bangladeshi government, whatever it may be.

Future of Bangladesh

A new “temporary government” – possibly to be advised by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus – is reportedly taking form in the crisis-stricken nation. This development follows the release from prison – mandated by President Mohammed Shahabuddin – of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who was convicted of corruption.

In the speculation that has surfaced since Mrs Hasina’s resignation, three prominent figures have emerged, including the Army, which assumed control after her departure and potentially issued a 45-minute ultimatum; and her adversary and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, who was imprisoned in 2018 on corruption charges and whose release was ordered by the President.