PM Modi leads high-level meeting on Bangladesh unrest; Jaishankar, NSA Doval present

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who resigned on Monday amid unprecedented anti-government protests, arrived at the Hindon airbase in Ghaziabad as part of her journey to London.

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During the CCS meeting, PM Modi received a detailed briefing on the unfolding crisis in Bangladesh. (File Image)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a critical meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on August 5 at his official residence, 7 Lok Kalyan Marg, to discuss the escalating situation in Bangladesh. The meeting was attended by key officials, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

During the CCS meeting, PM Modi received a detailed briefing on the unfolding crisis in Bangladesh. The discussions focused on political instability and its potential implications for regional security. Both Jaishankar and Doval provided insights and updates on the developments, emphasizing the need for India to stay vigilant and prepared for any eventualities.

Jaishankar's consultation with PM Modi

Earlier in the day, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar had a separate meeting with Prime Minister Modi. This meeting coincided with Bangladesh's leader, Sheikh Hasina, landing at the Hindon airbase near Ghaziabad, en route to London, amidst the turmoil in her country. Although there was no official statement regarding the specifics of their discussion, it is understood that Jaishankar briefed Modi on the evolving situation in Bangladesh.

Jaishankar also took the opportunity to inform the Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, about the latest developments in Bangladesh. This move underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for bipartisan awareness and cooperation.

Doval's meeting with Sheikh Hasina

NSA Ajit Doval had a brief but significant meeting with Sheikh Hasina at Hindon Airport in Ghaziabad. The meeting occurred during a scheduled refueling stop for Hasina's aircraft. Sources suggest that unforeseen issues have delayed Hasina's departure to London, and she has been relocated to a secure location in India. She is expected to meet her daughter, Saima Wazed, who is based in Delhi and serves as the World Health Organization's regional director for South-East Asia. However, there has been no official confirmation of Hasina's arrival in Delhi or any subsequent meetings with the NSA.

India's monitoring and response

India has granted safe passage for Sheikh Hasina's aircraft through its airspace, following a request from Dhaka. The Indian government is closely monitoring the rapidly evolving situation in Bangladesh, with no official reaction issued as of yet. The CCS meeting chaired by PM Modi highlights the importance India places on regional stability and its readiness to respond to any potential threats arising from the crisis in Bangladesh.