Md. Shawkat Alam Faisal

Sheikh Hasina's resignation on August 5, 2024 marked a watershed moment in Bangladeshi politics. After 15 years in power, her administration crumbled under fierce student-led protests, broad charges of corruption, authoritarian rule, and human rights violations. The months-long rallies turned into one of the worst government crackdowns in the country's history, with hundreds of protestors killed and thousands injured as Hasina's security forces used disproportionate force. This period of instability eventually resulted in an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, tasked with stabilizing the country and opening the path for democratic changes. However, the political landscape remains highly split, with evidence indicating that Hasina may be trying a comeback by capitalizing on religious tensions and utilizing India's strategic interests in the region.

Since Hasina's resignation, Bangladesh has seen a major increase in religious violence, notably against Hindu minorities. Hindu communities, which were formerly considered as Hasina's Awami League supporters, have become scapegoats in the aftermath of her resignation. Reports of attacks on Hindu residences, religious places, and businesses have raised worries that these acts of violence are being staged to sow discord. Critics claim that Hasina, who is currently exiled in India, is indirectly feeding the fires in order to reassert her power. The communal tensions have revived old grudges and exacerbated differences in Bangladesh's already fragmented society. Observers believe that this policy is part of Hasina's larger effort to maintain political relevance, particularly as her party confronts increasing marginalization.

The involvement of India in this unfolding drama has been a topic of dispute. As a long-time ally of Hasina's government, India played a critical role in sustaining her regime, which was viewed as a bulwark against anti-India insurgencies and a major partner in regional security and commerce. Since her removal, Hasina has sought sanctuary in India, and New Delhi's refusal to repatriate her despite rising legal and moral pressure has caused concerns. Some view India's perceived silence as a planned maneuver to maintain its interests in Bangladesh, especially given the country's uncertain direction under Yunus' leadership. The Awami League's tight ties with India, which has lasted decades, shows that New Delhi may see Hasina as a strategic asset, even as calls for her accountability rise in Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, the interim government has launched an ambitious reform program to address the systemic challenges that plagued Hasina's administration. These measures include reforming the judiciary, revamping law enforcement, and fortifying democratic institutions to ensure free and fair elections. However, the government's attempts confront considerable hurdles, not the least of which are the remains of the Awami League, which has been weakened but not completely eliminated. Many of its leaders are either in hiding or facing legal consequences for their roles in the violent crackdowns and alleged corruption scandals. This dangerous condition has created a void in Bangladeshi politics, with the possibility of greater turmoil if Hasina and her supporters try to reestablish themselves.

Since August 5, 2024, Bangladesh has seen a series of disturbing sectarian incidents purportedly staged by Awami League members and their allies, frequently with the help of Hindu leaders with connections to India. These incidents have included deliberate damage of Hindu temples and homes in Sylhet and Chittagong, as well as provocations intended to instill terror among the Hindu minority. Notably, leaders promoted rallies in Shahbag, stating Hindus were in danger, a narrative that many regard as overstated and intended to undermine the interim administration. Speeches by famous Hindu leaders such as Chinmaya Das at anti-national seminars exacerbated tensions, with proposals for a separate Hindu state and allegations against the interim administration. These incendiary words were accompanied by aggressive actions, including the desecration of the Bangladeshi national flag during protests.

In Chittagong, the district court, surrounding areas, and mosques were vandalized, causing resentment among the Muslim population. The murder of Advocate Saiful Islam Alif, an Assistant Public Prosecutor in Chittagong, by a Hindu mob exacerbated the problem. The prosecutor was assassinated apparently after Chinmaya Das' bail plea was denied, prompting considerable condemnation both domestically and abroad, underscoring the court system's difficulties in reducing tensions. These occurrences, combined with aspirations for a separate Hindu state, have exacerbated tensions and worsened communal ties. Moreover, the Assistant High Commission of Bangladesh in Agartala, India was attacked and the national flag was vandalized. Again, an Indian mob tried to forcefully enter through the border of Bangladesh to create a riot. Political analysts believe that these actions are part of a deliberate effort by Awami League and their allies to destabilize the interim government and reclaim political power, with India's alleged support raising new concerns about external interference in Bangladesh's sovereignty.

The communal violence against Hindus has also sparked international concern, with some commentators tying it to India's overall geopolitical strategy. India may be attempting to influence the situation in its favor by nurturing or tolerating the instability, guaranteeing that any future Bangladeshi administration is willing to serve its interests. However, this strategy risks backfiring, as prolonged volatility could jeopardize regional security and harm India's reputation as a supporter of democratic norms. Furthermore, human rights organizations have sharply criticized the targeting of minority communities, claiming that such tactics exacerbate societal divisions and undermine trust in democratic institutions.

The country's internal stability is critical to regional peace and economic cooperation in South Asia. As the interim administration works to restore order and prepare for elections, the entire community will be watching to see if justice, accountability, and healing can triumph. Sheikh Hasina's purported moves, combined with allegations of sectarian manipulation and external influence, highlight the delicate balance required to traverse this difficult moment in Bangladeshi history. The following months will be key in determining whether the country can overcome its obstacles and forge a more inclusive and democratic future.

The writer is an, Apprentice Lawyer at the Bangladesh Bar Council.