Sheikh Hasina’s speech: Bangladesh summons Indian High Commissioner

Dhaka summons Head of Mission of the Indian High Commission over accusations of murder plot against Sheikh Hasina by interim government.

Dhaka has summoned the Head of Mission of Indian High Commission in Bangladesh on Thursday (February 6, 2025) after Sheikh Hasina delivered a speech from India, accusing Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government Muhammad Yunus of making a “meticulous plan” to murder her.

The official has been summoned hours after Ms. Hasina’s speech was broadcast on all online platforms of her party, the Awami League.

Ms. Hasina’s speech followed the destruction of the 32 Dhanmondi residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman by a mob. The building was demolished using heavy earth moving machinery despite police presence. In a statement, the Awami League accused the interim government of providing “immunity” and said, “Dr. Yunus and the entire interim government cannot escape liability for last night’s destructive acts.”

“A game of destruction has started around Bangladesh which is going through a phase of chaos and upheaval. Bangladesh which was a role model of development across the world has become the land of terrorists and fighters. This is indeed a matter of great misfortune for us all,” Ms. Hasina said in her speech.

Calling Mr. Yunus’ government “completely unconstitutional”, she said, ““He (Mr. Yunus) has come to power using money power and by stepping on the dead bodies of many people of our country. There was a meticulous planning by Yunus sahib to kill me and my sister.”

Also on Thursday (February 6, 2025), protesters in Bangladesh targeted the houses of several Awami League leaders. They also demolished a memorial of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in Dhaka.

Bangladesh has been seeking the extradition of Ms. Hasina from India, where she has been residing since fleeing Dhaka in August 2024. In December 2024, Bangladesh sent a note verbale to India seeking her repatriation. India’s Ministry of External Affairs too confirmed receiving the request. And in January this year, Bangladesh also revoked the passport of Ms. Hasina and 96 others for crackdown against protesters during the protests there last year.