India Rejects Bangladesh's Claims Linking Attackers to India in Pre-Election Violence Case

Hadi, recognized for his controversial remarks, stands as an independent candidate representing the Dhaka-8 constituency.

Following the recent assault on an anti-Sheikh Hasina radical leader in Bangladesh, the Muhammad Yunus interim government in Dhaka has requested India's assistance in apprehending and extraditing the assailants. However, New Delhi has firmly dismissed claims suggesting any connection between the attackers and India.

The Foreign Ministry released a statement categorically rejecting assertions made by Bangladesh's interim government in its December 14 press note regarding the attack on radical leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who serves as spokesperson for the Anti-Sheikh Hasina Inqilab Manch.

"We have consistently maintained our position supporting free, fair, inclusive and credible elections in Bangladesh conducted in a peaceful environment," the MEA statement emphasized.

"India has never permitted its territory to be used for activities detrimental to the interests of the friendly people of Bangladesh," the statement further affirmed.

"We expect the interim government of Bangladesh to implement all necessary measures to ensure internal law and order, including for conducting peaceful elections," the statement added, stressing the importance of the interim government holding elections so Bangladesh can return to governance with an elected mandate.

Since Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed leadership of the interim government following former premier Sheikh Hasina's removal, Bangladesh has witnessed increasing extremism and radical Islam, leading to deteriorating security conditions. With elections scheduled for February 12, the government anticipates additional incidents of violence.

Political analysts suggest the interim government may attempt to attribute responsibility for declining law and order to external forces amid the surge of radical Islam and extremism.

Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma, demanding "expeditious extradition" of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has resided in India since fleeing Dhaka on August 5, 2024.

A MoFA statement indicated officials highlighted "anti-Bangladesh activities by fugitive Awami League members staying in India." The ministry also alleged these individuals were organizing terrorist activities within Bangladesh to disrupt upcoming elections.

Bangladesh has additionally communicated that should those who attacked Sharif Osman Hadi, convener of Inqilab Moncho, enter India, they should be arrested and returned.

Sharif Osman Hadi, who sustained a gunshot wound to the head on Friday, will be transported to Singapore today via air ambulance for medical treatment.

Hadi, known for provocative statements, is campaigning as an independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency and was shot while traveling in an e-rickshaw in Dhaka's Purana Paltan area. Currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Dhaka, his condition remains critical.