Bangladesh stability key to India’s northeast peace: Secretary General of Bangladesh's Jatiya Party

Jatiya Party Secretary General Shamim Haider Patwary addressed growing concerns regarding regional stability, cross-border dependencies, and recent political developments, including the issue of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina potentially seeking asylum in India.

Patwary asserted that seeking asylum or refuge in any country for the sake of personal safety is not illegal under international norms. “As an asylum or as a refugee or to save lives, anyone can stay in any country. I don’t see any illegality in that,” he remarked, indirectly addressing speculation about Sheikh Hasina’s future in light of domestic unrest.

He emphasized India’s pivotal role as Bangladesh's principal neighbor, highlighting the 3,000 km-long shared border and the deep socio-economic interdependence. “India is our only practical neighbour, as Myanmar is currently engulfed in civil war,” he noted, adding that over a million Bangladeshis travel to India annually for medical treatment and other essential needs.

Patwary also acknowledged India’s strategic interest in a stable Bangladesh, particularly in relation to its northeastern region. “If Bangladesh becomes unstable, it will have repercussions on the Seven Sisters and other parts of India,” he warned.

Touching on post-Hasina developments, he pointed out that anti-India slogans and provocative actions by certain groups, including the creation of controversial maps, have unnecessarily strained bilateral relations. He urged political actors on both sides to exercise restraint and avoid statements that could undermine the sovereignty of either nation.

“There must be mutual respect. No country should make remarks that impact another’s sovereignty,” he stressed, calling for a dignified and cooperative relationship between India and Bangladesh. He concluded by noting that national security and regional peace must be prioritized in the spirit of neighborly partnership.