Veena Sikri Urges Caution as Bangladesh Faces Turmoil: Concerns Over India Relations Amid Jamaat-e-Islami Influence

Veena Sikri, India’s former high commissioner to Bangladesh, provided a detailed analysis of the recent upheaval in Bangladesh

Veena Sikri, India’s former high commissioner to Bangladesh, provided a detailed analysis of the recent upheaval in Bangladesh, which led to the ousting of Sheikh Hasina. Sikri believes the situation is more complex than just a student-led protest for quota reform. She sees it as an upheaval driven by Jamaat-e-Islami, with potential backing from Pakistan, China, and Western nations, rather than a genuine grassroots movement. Sikri expresses concern about the future of India-Bangladesh relations, especially with Muhammad Yunus potentially leading an interim government. Although Yunus has blamed India for supporting Hasina, Sikri hopes to work towards maintaining good relations with India if he takes power.

She also emphasizes the importance of India managing the situation carefully, given the shared border and economic ties. Sikri suggests that the recent violence in Bangladesh, including attacks on Hindus, is not the result of student protests but rather orchestrated by more organized and potentially foreign-backed groups. She stresses that India must remain vigilant and work with other countries, including those in the Gulf, to help stabilize Bangladesh. Overall, Sikri calls for a cautious approach, recognizing the challenges of Hasina’s departure and the potential for increased influence from groups like Jamaat-e-Islami, which could destabilize the region further.