New Delhi: Congress leader and MP Shashi Tharoor has praised the Indian government for offering refuge to Sheikh Hasina after she was forced to resign as Bangladeshs Prime Minister amid violent protests. Speaking to the media, Tharoor emphasized that the power shift in Bangladesh should not be a cause for concern for India, as the countrys fundamental interest lies in maintaining close and friendly relations with its neighbor.Tharoor acknowledged the importance of Indias longstanding relationship with Bangladesh, stating, Our fundamental interest lies in close and friendly relations with Bangladesh, our basic commitment is to the well-being of the Bangladeshi people. The State comes second, and any individual leader comes third. He noted that India has consistently supported Bangladesh, including during the 1971 liberation war, and this support has remained steadfast even during less favorable governments.Nobel prize recipient takes chargeRegarding the interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize winner and Grameen Bank founder Muhammad Yunus, Tharoor expressed confidence that there is no reason for India to worry. He described Yunus as a highly respected figure who is closer to Washington than to groups like Jamaat-e-Islami or the Pakistani ISI, stating, There doesnt seem to be any particular reason for India to feel any anxiety about countries hostile to us having put their stamp on this interim government.Tharoor also addressed concerns about external influences, particularly from Pakistan and China, in the current situation. While acknowledging the potential for interference, he expressed optimism that the interim governments commitment to peace and the protection of minorities would prevent any deterioration in relations between India and Bangladesh.Tharoor lauds BJP in Bangladesh scenario Tharoor lauded the Indian governments decision to provide asylum to Hasina, stressing that it was the right and honorable action to take. If we had not helped her, it would have been a disgrace for India. Nobody would have wanted to be our friend if we had treated our friend badly, he remarked, underscoring the importance of standing by allies in times of need.
