Dhaka: Prime Minister’s Political Adviser Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Thursday alleged that India is once again using deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as a ‘tool’ to influence Bangladesh.

According to United News of Bangladesh, Rizvi made the remarks while addressing a programme organised by the Shaheed July Smriti Sangsad at the Jatiya Press Club, marking the 2nd anniversary of the July uprising. The event included financial assistance for families of those killed in the movement and a remembrance session.

Rizvi, who is also the BNP senior joint secretary general, said that allowing Hasina to address a press conference on Wednesday was a ‘planned’ move. He stated that the country, which claims to be the world’s largest democracy, has patronised this act, thereby insulting Bangladesh’s sovereignty and independence. He claimed that permission was deliberately granted to disrespect Bangladesh.

The BNP leader alleged that India had previously sought to control Bangladesh through Hasina but is no longer able to do so. He argued that this is why Hasina is once again being used as a tool. Rizvi referred to India as a ‘bloodthirsty monster’ that has been driven out of Bangladesh. He questioned whether a fugitive convict can engage in politics from the country where she has taken refuge, highlighting India’s role in providing her shelter and allowing her to send audio messages and statements to create instability in Bangladesh.

Rizvi further alleged that Hasina was formally allowed to speak on the very date marking her ouster from power. He mentioned that the Bangladesh government protested this, but the Indian government claimed it had no connection with the event. Rizvi questioned how a programme could be held without government approval, suggesting a government green signal was necessary for Hasina and her son to hold a press conference.

The BNP leader also claimed that if Hasina returns to Bangladesh, the country will once again witness ‘bloodshed and she will spare no one.’ Referring to the Awami League government, he alleged that there had been no fair justice during Hasina’s tenure. Rizvi claimed that judges attempting to deliver impartial verdicts risked enforced disappearance or had to flee the country to save their lives.