Bangladesh has responded to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjees recent offer to shelter people from Bangladesh amidst ongoing violence and unrest in the country. While maintaining that they have excellent ties with Mamata Banerjee, the Bangladeshi government emphasized that it is capable of handling its internal matters and does not require external intervention.The statement from Bangladesh Foreign minister Hasan Mahmud has come after recent remarks of Mamata Banerjee that could create confusion and mislead people. However, it also underlines Bangladeshs stance on sovereignty and its ability to manage domestic issues independently, despite the cordial relationship with the neighboring states leadership.As reported by United News of Bangladesh, the minister said, “With due respect to (West Bengal) chief minister Mamata Banerjee, I would like to say, we have excellent relations with her. We have deep relations. But her remarks created confusion to some extent, and there is scope to be misled.”Recently, the chief minister of West Bengal while addressing a rally, said, If helpless people from Bangladesh knock on Bengals door, we will give them shelter. The Indian government will address the broader issue, but we will do our part. Hundreds of students and others are returning to West Bengal/ India, from the trouble-torn Bangladesh.I have asked our State administration to render all help and assistance to the returnees.For instance, around 300 students arrived at Hilli border today and most of them left…— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) July 21, 2024Protests in BangladeshAt least 130 people have been killed in the ongoing protests by the students against government jobs quota in the country.Meanwhile, in a recent development, the Supreme Courts Appellate Division overturned the High Courts decision that had sparked the crisis and gave merit-based appointments to 93% of government posts, leaving only 5% of employment for independence warriors and their ancestors. Each of the following groups has been given a quota of one percent: sexual minorities, tribes, and individuals with disabilities.The situation has prompted the government to shut schools and colleges and nationwide disconnection of internet and mobile services.
