Taslima Nasreen Urges Bangladesh to Allow Sheikh Hasinas Return Amid Political Turmoil
Kolkata, August 2: Exiled Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nasreen called on the Bangladesh government to lift the ban on the Awami League and assist former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in returning to the country.
During a press conference in Kolkata, Nasreen stated, “The way Sheikh Hasina was ousted from power is wrong. It is not a democratic process. Imposing a ban on the Awami League is also entirely undemocratic. The party should be allowed to participate in elections. I want Sheikh Hasina to come back to Bangladesh.”
She emphasized that despite her criticisms of Hasina, she opposes the ban on the Awami League. Notably, Nasreen was forced into exile during Hasina’s tenure.
On Sunday, she appealed to the current Bangladesh Nationalist Party government to facilitate Hasina’s return. According to Nasreen, Hasina should be given the opportunity to lead her party and participate in elections upon her return to Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, Nasreen expressed hope for improved relations between India and Bangladesh, acknowledging India’s significant contribution to Bangladesh’s independence. She remarked, “But no one has asked me to return. How can I go back to my country?”
Discussing the political situation in Bangladesh, Nasreen observed that there seems to be no reduction in the influence of extremist groups. She noted, “I see no signs of this decreasing. On the contrary, it is increasing. The Jamaat-e-Islami will now have a presence in Parliament. It would have been better if the Awami League remained the main opposition party.”
Nasreen also stated that there is “no difference” between the governments of Tarique Rahman and Muhammad Yunus. She claimed, “In fact, during Yunus’s tenure, atrocities against Hindus have increased.”
She accused the Bangladesh government of failing to take action against those perpetrating violence against Hindus. Furthermore, she alleged that many madrasas teach hatred towards non-Muslims, leading to the persecution of Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians in Bangladesh.
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