‘Even If They Kill or Arrest Me, I Won’t Back Down’: Sheikh Hasina’s Key Remarks

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed gratitude to the Indian government and its people for providing her with shelter. In a virtual interview with an international media organisation, she recalled the tragic events of 1975 and thanked India for standing by her during difficult times. In August that year, a military coup in Bangladesh led to the killing of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the country’s first president, along with her mother, three brothers and other family members. Hasina and her younger sister, Sheikh Rehana, survived because they were abroad at the time. The then Indian Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi, provided them with shelter. Hasina returned to Bangladesh in May 1981, six years later, and went on to become a prominent figure in the country's politics.

Hasina reiterated that her plan to return to Bangladesh in December remains unchanged. She said she was not afraid of returning, even if she faced the possibility of being killed, tortured or arrested, describing the return as her responsibility. However, she did not disclose the exact date of her planned return. She also urged the current Bangladeshi government to ensure that the cases registered against her and her supporters are investigated and tried transparently. Her remarks reaffirm her intention to return to her home country while acknowledging India's support during a difficult period in her life.