The ousted former Prime Minister fled a student-led uprising by helicopter to India earlier this month.
Bangladesh Revokes Sheikh Hasina’s Diplomatic Passport Amidst Political Turmoil
DHAKA: On Thursday, Bangladesh’s interim government revoked the diplomatic passport of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This move follows Hasina’s dramatic escape to India earlier this month via helicopter, fleeing a student-led uprising that culminated in her removal from power. The revocation of her diplomatic passport marks a significant development in the country’s ongoing political crisis and raises potential diplomatic challenges for Hasina’s current host, India.
Background of the Uprising
The upheaval leading to Hasina’s ousting was marked by intense violence and unrest. Over 450 people were killed in the weeks leading up to her departure, many of them at the hands of police. The violence peaked as protestors stormed Hasina’s official residence in Dhaka, bringing an end to her 15-year tenure characterized by strong-handed rule. The response to these protests, and the subsequent political shift, have been closely scrutinized both domestically and internationally.
Diplomatic Passport Revocation
The revocation of Sheikh Hasina’s diplomatic passport, along with those of former government ministers and lawmakers who are no longer in office, was announced by Bangladesh’s interior ministry. The statement highlighted that these passports are only valid as long as the individuals hold official positions. The decision underscores the new government’s stance on addressing the remnants of the previous administration and emphasizes a shift in diplomatic protocols.
The home ministry’s statement elaborated, “The former prime minister, her advisers, the former cabinet, and all members of the dissolved national assembly were eligible for diplomatic passports by virtue of the positions they held. If they have been removed or retired from their posts, their and their spouses’ diplomatic passports have to be revoked.”
Implications for Sheikh Hasina and India
The revocation places Sheikh Hasina in a precarious situation, potentially leaving her in a state of diplomatic limbo. While she can apply for a standard passport, its issuance will depend on clearance from two security agencies, adding another layer of complexity to her current status. The interim government’s action not only impacts Hasina but also poses a diplomatic challenge for India, where Hasina has sought refuge.
Dhaka’s new authorities have stated that former officials, including Hasina, may apply for ordinary passports, but these applications will be subject to thorough scrutiny. “When the aforementioned people apply afresh for ordinary passports, two security agencies have to clear their application for their passports to be issued,” the ministry explained.
UN Investigation into Human Rights Violations
The passport revocation coincides with the arrival of a United Nations team in Dhaka to assess the situation. The UN team is evaluating whether to launch an investigation into alleged human rights violations linked to the response to the protests. According to a preliminary report from the UN rights office, there are “strong indications, warranting further independent investigation, that the security forces used unnecessary and disproportionate force” during the unrest. This report has intensified international scrutiny of the interim government’s actions and the broader human rights implications of the crisis.
Accusations Against Hasina’s Government
Sheikh Hasina’s government has faced serious allegations, including mass detentions and extrajudicial killings of political opponents. These accusations have been a focal point of both domestic dissent and international criticism. The current interim administration’s actions, including the revocation of diplomatic passports, reflect a broader effort to distance itself from the previous regime’s controversial practices and to signal a shift towards a new political era.
Future Outlook
As Bangladesh navigates this period of political transition, the revocation of Sheikh Hasina’s diplomatic passport is likely to have far-reaching implications. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing assessments and investigations potentially influencing future developments. The actions taken by the interim government, alongside international responses and the forthcoming UN investigation, will shape the trajectory of Bangladesh’s political landscape and its international relations.
In summary, the revocation of Sheikh Hasina’s diplomatic passport highlights the ongoing political turbulence in Bangladesh and underscores the complexities of international diplomacy in the wake of significant regime changes. The interim government’s measures, along with the potential UN investigation, will play a critical role in determining the country’s path forward and addressing the lingering issues from Hasina’s administration.