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India on Sunday rejected allegations from Bangladesh's interim government and said it has never allowed its territory to be used for activities harmful to Bangladesh’s interests, while reiterating its support
for peaceful and credible elections in the neighbouring country.India’s response came hours after Bangladesh’s foreign ministry summoned Indian High Commissioner to Dhaka Pranay Verma to convey concerns over what it described as “incendiary” statements made by former prime minister Sheikh Hasina from Indian soil. Dhaka also flagged the activities of some members of Hasina’s Awami League while they are in India, according to a readout released by the Bangladeshi authorities.
“India categorically rejects the assertions made by the interim government of Bangladesh in its press note,” the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.The MEA said New Delhi has consistently maintained its position in favour of democratic processes in Bangladesh. “India has consistently reiterated its position in favour of free, fair, inclusive and credible elections in Bangladesh in a peaceful atmosphere,” it said.Addressing the allegations directly, the ministry added, “India has never allowed its territory to be used for activities inimical to the interests of the friendly people of Bangladesh.”India also called on the interim administration in Dhaka to ensure stability ahead of the polls. “We expect that the interim government of Bangladesh will take all necessary measures for ensuring internal law and order, including for the purpose of holding peaceful elections,” the statement said.Bangladesh is scheduled to hold parliamentary elections on February 12. The vote will be the country’s first general election since the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina-led government in August last year following widespread, student-led protests. The Awami League has rejected the upcoming elections, alleging that the interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus will be unable to conduct the polls in a free and fair manner. In a statement issued on Thursday, the party said, “It is now clear that the current occupying authority is entirely biased, and that under their control it is impossible to ensure a fair and normal environment where transparency, neutrality, and the people's will can be reflected.”Last month, Hasina, 78, was sentenced to death by a special tribunal in Dhaka for “crimes against humanity” linked to her government’s crackdown on protests last year. She has been living in India since August 5 last year, when she fled Bangladesh amid escalating unrest.
