UK Calls For UN-Led Probe Into Bangladesh Crisis; Maintains Silence On Hasina Getting Asylum

The UK government has urged for a United Nations-led investigation into the unrest that resulted in the resignation of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Foreign Secretary David Lammy emphasized the UK’s support for a ‘peaceful and democratic future’ for Bangladesh following Hasina’s resignation and departure from the country. Notably, there was no mention of granting asylum to Hasina, who is currently seeking refuge.
“The last two weeks in Bangladesh have seen unprecedented levels of violence and tragic loss of life… All sides must work together to restore calm under a transitional government,” David Lammy said in a statement on Monday.
“The people of Bangladesh deserve a full and independent UN-led investigation into the events of the past few weeks,” the UK Foreign Secretary said, adding that his country wants to “see action taken to ensure Bangladesh a peaceful and democratic future.” “The UK and Bangladesh have deep people-to-people links and shared Commonwealth values,” he added.
It is to be mentioned that India has extended comprehensive logistical support to Hasina as she seeks asylum in the UK. Hasina’s temporary stay in India was approved as she awaits her relocation to the UK. The move comes after Hasina’s dramatic resignation and subsequent arrival at the Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad on Monday.
The Prime Minister’s official residence, ‘Ganabhaban,’ was stormed and vandalized by thousands of protesters in Dhaka, leading to a tragic outcome with over 100 fatalities and more than 1,000 injuries during clashes between police and demonstrators.
The student-led non-cooperation movement had intensified pressure on Hasina’s government in recent weeks, with protests against the 30% job reservation for freedom fighters’ relatives. This reservation policy sparked outrage due to the historical context of Bangladesh’s independence struggle against Pakistan in 1971, marked by significant casualties and atrocities. Hasina’s asylum quest and the ensuing unrest underscore the complex socio-political landscape in the region.