(MENAFN) Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has expressed concerns that the aggressive statements coming from the nation’s current chief adviser, Mohammad Yunus, are endangering the long-established relationship with India.

Hasina, who sought refuge in India following the 2024 uprising, told a news agency in a written interview on Wednesday that Yunus’ backing of radical groups is straining ties with the country’s western neighbor.

“India is a longstanding friend, and I am deeply grateful to the Indian people for welcoming me,” she remarked.

“However, Yunus’ sponsorship of extremists, his failure to protect Hindus, and the idiotic hostile rhetoric towards India emanating from Dhaka threaten to undo the partnership that we worked hard to cultivate.”

She noted that even though Bangladesh-India trade relations have weakened under Yunus, a Nobel Peace laureate, the connection between the two nations remains strong.

Hasina expressed her “gratitude for India’s support and patience as they wait for Bangladesh to get its affairs in order.”

Regarding foreign involvement in last year’s protests that led to her government’s removal, Hasina dismissed the idea that Washington played a part. “I do not believe the US government was involved. I have had good relationships with successive presidents and am a particular admirer of President Trump,” she said.

While acknowledging that Yunus enjoys significant support in the West, Hasina clarified that he is not “a front-man” for the US government.

Looking ahead to the next elections in Bangladesh, expected in 2026, Hasina argued that they cannot be considered “free” since her Awami League, which governed for 15 years before being ousted, has been prevented from participating.

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