India Says No Role in Sheikh Hasina's Planned Virtual Address in New Delhi

Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh in 2024 following student-led protests that ended her government. She has resided in New Delhi since that departure.

1. On August 5, 2026, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated that the government is not involved in a virtual speech Sheikh Hasina plans to deliver.

2. The Indian government stated it does not endorse views Sheikh Hasina expressed at a private event. The Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia hosted the gathering.

3. On August 5, 2026, the Awami League criticized a media ban imposed by the Bangladeshi government. The party described the prohibition as an attempt to intimidate journalists.

4. Sheikh Hasina plans to return to Bangladesh from exile in December 2026. She intends to appear in court regarding her 2025 conviction.

1. Bangladesh officials warned India that allowing Sheikh Hasina to conduct political activities would harm bilateral relations.

2. M Humayun Kabir, advisor to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, formally protested the event to the Indian high commissioner in Dhaka.

3. The government of Bangladesh prohibited local media from broadcasting or publishing speeches, statements, or interviews by Sheikh Hasina.

4. A court sentenced Sheikh Hasina to death in 2025. The conviction followed charges of crimes against humanity during the 2024 demonstrations. Bangladesh cited this ruling in its official objection.