Exiled leaders of Bangladesh's ruling Awami League have made a serious allegation, stating that the recent spate of violence in their country is not isolated but part of a larger, orchestrated campaign targeting India. They specifically pointed to the lynching of Dipu Chandra Das and attacks in Mymensingh following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi.
Insurgent Infiltration and a "Larger Gameplan"
On Saturday, these political figures connected a series of events reported from Bangladesh over the past week. They highlighted a concerning pattern where anti-Indian forces from outside the country are allegedly infiltrating Bangladesh and conspiring with local elements. An Awami League leader based in Kolkata told TOI that ULFA chief Paresh Baruah may have moved into Bangladesh, reportedly entering through Chittagong before travelling to Dhaka.
"There is an effort to rehabilitate the Indian insurgent groups in Bangladesh. This happened days before the violence took place," revealed an Awami League leader who chose to remain anonymous. This movement of militants is seen as a precursor to the unrest.
Condemnation and Accusations Against Pakistan
In a strongly-worded statement, the Awami League condemned the violence as a direct assault on Bangladesh's secular foundations. The statement read, "As an independent, sovereign and pluralistic state, Bangladesh has become a haven for terrorists. Targeting cultural institutions and diplomatic missions of other countries is a grave violation of national security, diplomatic etiquette, and international law."
The leaders also pointed to intelligence about the movement of a high-ranking commander of Hizbul Mujahideen in Bangladesh. This individual, using the pseudonym Mohammad Karim, allegedly entered via Cox's Bazar and met with leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam.
"The presence of the HUJI leader and Paresh Baruah in Bangladesh before the violence erupted cannot be taken as mere coincidence," asserted the Awami League leader. They directly accused Pakistan, stating, "Pakistan is trying to weaken pro-liberation and India-leaning elements within Bangladesh's military and administration."
Protests and a "Well-Planned Conspiracy"
The protests that erupted in Bangladesh after Osman Hadi's death were marked by allegations against India, accusing it of influencing the nation's political direction. The Awami League's statement framed these events as a deliberate plot.
"The Bangladesh Awami League firmly believes that these malevolent forces, extremist communal and militant groups, are engaged in a well-planned conspiracy to disrupt peaceful coexistence, create religious divisions, and embarrass Bangladesh on the international stage," the party declared. They view the violence as a strategic move to destabilize the region and target the historical and cultural ties between Bangladesh and India.
