00:00Sheikh Haseena's decision to seek refuge in India after being ousted as the Prime Minister
00:06of Bangladesh is rooted in the deep historical, political and cultural ties between the two
00:12nations.
00:13The relationship between India and Bangladesh is unique, marked by mutual respect, shared
00:19history and collaborative effort for regional stability.
00:24Several factors explain why Sheikh Haseena turned to India during her time of need.
00:34The bond between India and Bangladesh dates back to the 1971 Liberation War, when India
00:40played a crucial role in Bangladesh's fight for independence from Pakistan.
00:46India provided military support, humanitarian aid and political backing to the Mukti Bahini,
00:52the Bangladesh's liberation forces.
00:55The successful collaboration during this period laid the foundation for a strong bilateral
01:00relationship.
01:01Sheikh Haseena, being the daughter of Bangladesh's founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, holds
01:07a personal and familial connection to India's critical role in her country's independence.
01:13This shared history likely influenced her decision to seek refuge in the country that
01:18led one stood by her family and nation during their most challenging times.
01:26Politically, Sheikh Haseena's Awami League has historically maintained closer ties with
01:34India compared to other political factions in Bangladesh.
01:38The Awami League has often emphasized cooperation with India, focusing on mutual interests such
01:45as economic development, counter-terrorism and regional security.
01:50In contrast, other political entities in Bangladesh have occasionally adopted anti-India rhetoric.
01:56Given the alignment, it was natural for Haseena to turn to India, where she could expect a
02:03supportive environment both politically and diplomatically.
02:07Following the assassination of her father and much of her family in 1975, Sheikh Haseena
02:17faced significant personal risk.
02:21Political instability in Bangladesh often leads to threats against opposition leaders
02:27and their families.
02:28India, known for its robust security infrastructure, offered a safer heaven for Haseena during
02:35turbulent times.
02:37India's willingness to provide refuge highlights the trust and friendship between the two countries.
02:44Moreover, India's democratic framework and its respect for human rights and political
02:50asylum provide a reassuring environment for political exiles.
02:54India and Bangladesh share substantial economic ties, with India being one of Bangladesh's
03:04largest trading partners.
03:06The two countries have engaged in numerous bilateral agreements aimed at fostering trade,
03:12connectivity and economic cooperation.
03:14For Sheikh Haseena, fostering a close relationship with India is strategically beneficial for
03:20Bangladesh's economic growth and stability.
03:23During her exile, maintaining a connection with India allowed her to keep abreast of
03:29regional developments and ensure that economic and strategic interests continue to align
03:35with those of supporting neighbour.
03:41The cultural and social bonds between India and Bangladesh are strong with shared language,
03:46traditions and religion practices.
03:49Bengal, as a cultural region, extends across borders of both countries, promoting a sense
03:55of kinship and shared identity.
03:58This cultural affinity likely provided Haseena with a sense of comfort and familiarity during
04:04her time in India, reinforcing her decision to seek refuge in India once again.
04:15From a diplomatic perspective, India's support for Sheikh Haseena was also an investment
04:20in future bilateral relations.
04:23By providing refuge and support, India aimed to foster stable and friendly government in
04:29Bangladesh, which is crucial for regional security and cooperation in South Asia.
04:35Haseena's eventual return to power and her continued efforts to strengthen India-Bangladesh
04:41relations have validated India's approach, leading to numerous joint initiatives in areas
04:47such as border management, water resource sharing and counter-terrorism.
04:53Follow One India for real-time updates.
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