Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday expressed hope for a swift return to stability in Bangladesh as Muhammad Yunus takes on new responsibilities leading an interim government.
Modi’s first comments on the ongoing crisis came via X (formerly Twitter), where he congratulated Yunus and underscored the need for a peaceful resolution. “We hope for an early return to normalcy, ensuring the safety and protection of Hindus and all minority communities,” Modi said.
He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to collaborating with Bangladesh to achieve mutual goals of peace, security, and development.
Yunus, the 84-year-old Nobel laureate, was sworn in as head of the interim government during a ceremony at the Bangabhaban presidential palace in Dhaka. The event was marked by the presence of foreign diplomats, civil society leaders, top business figures, and former opposition members, though representatives from the party of the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina were notably absent.
Hasina resigned earlier this week following massive protests against her government’s job quota system. What began as protests over quotas soon escalated into widespread unrest challenging Hasina’s 15-year tenure, which has been marred by accusations of corruption and human rights abuses.
Yunus, who was in Paris for the 2024 Olympics when his appointment was confirmed, returned to Dhaka under tight security. Upon his return, he vowed to focus on restoring national unity, stating, “Bangladesh is a family. We have to unite it.” The new interim cabinet, which includes 16 members mainly from civil society and student protest leaders, now faces the urgent task of preparing for upcoming elections and tackling the country’s pressing issues.
