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Sheikh Hasina's Delhi Speech Sparks Political Crisis in Bangladesh

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 2:27 GMT by The Hans India
      Locales: BANGLADESH, INDIA

Dhaka, January 26, 2026 - A controversial speech delivered by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during her recent visit to Delhi has ignited a firestorm of criticism within Bangladesh, threatening to deepen existing political divisions and potentially trigger a significant political crisis. The speech, characterized by veiled references to India's role in maintaining stability, has been widely interpreted as an appeal for external support, drawing fierce condemnation from the opposition and civil society groups.

During a public address in Delhi, Prime Minister Hasina reportedly stated, "We need to maintain stability in our country, and we are grateful for the support we receive from our neighbours." While the government insists this was a standard expression of regional partnership, the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and numerous other organizations view it as an admission of weakness and an attempt to justify increasingly authoritarian tactics.

The BNP has been particularly vocal, accusing Hasina's government of actively seeking foreign intervention to stifle dissent and consolidate power. Senior BNP leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir framed the statement as a desperate measure, claiming, "This is a desperate attempt by the Prime Minister to deflect from the domestic issues plaguing our nation. It's a clear indication that the Awami League is losing its grip on power and is now resorting to external assistance." This sentiment echoes the growing frustration among many Bangladeshis regarding the government's handling of recent protests and allegations of electoral irregularities.

Beyond the BNP, a coalition of civil society organizations has also condemned the speech, emphasizing its potential to undermine Bangladesh's sovereignty and core democratic principles. These groups argue that relying on external actors to maintain stability is inherently problematic, fostering dependency and eroding the nation's capacity for self-governance. Concerns are being voiced about the precedent this sets for future administrations.

Political analysts are warning of a potentially volatile situation. Dr. Salimullah, a political analyst at Dhaka University, cautioned, "The Prime Minister's comments are not only insensitive but also dangerous. They are likely to embolden the opposition and could trigger a political crisis." The existing political climate is already strained, with ongoing protests fuelled by accusations of human rights violations and concerns over the fairness of recent elections. Hasina's remarks are seen as adding fuel to the fire, potentially escalating tensions and leading to further unrest.

The government, predictably, has attempted to downplay the significance of the speech and defend Hasina's statements. A spokesperson for the Prime Minister's office released a statement asserting that the remarks were taken out of context and emphasizing the importance of maintaining strong relationships with neighbouring countries. The statement reiterated the government's commitment to stability and peace, while thanking friends for their support. However, this defensive posture has failed to quell the public outcry.

Experts suggest several underlying factors contributing to the sensitivity of this situation. Firstly, the Awami League government has faced increasing criticism over its handling of the economy and allegations of corruption. Secondly, the BNP, despite facing significant legal challenges, remains a powerful force in Bangladeshi politics. The speech has inadvertently provided the opposition with a potent rallying cry, allowing them to further galvanize support against the ruling party. Finally, the historical complexities of the relationship between Bangladesh and India, including unresolved border disputes and concerns about Indian influence, are further complicating the situation.

The controversy is expected to remain a central issue in Bangladeshi politics for the foreseeable future. The long-term consequences could include increased political instability, a weakening of democratic institutions, and a potential strain on relations with neighboring India, despite the government's attempts to portray it as a gesture of regional cooperation. The situation underscores the fragile nature of Bangladesh's political landscape and the challenges facing the Hasina government as it attempts to navigate a period of growing dissent and international scrutiny.