‘You can’t just walk away’: Yunus slams Delhi’s silence on Hasina’s online speeches from India

Nobel Peace laureate and Bangladesh’s interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, has issued a stern rebuke to India over former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s continued online outreach to Bangladeshis from Indian soil — warning that her digital broadcasts are inciting fresh anger and threatening the country's fragile stability.

Speaking at London’s prestigious Chatham House, Yunus revealed that he personally appealed to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to prevent Hasina from addressing Bangladeshi audiences through platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Hasina, who fled to India following her dramatic ouster in August 2024, frequently announces live addresses that Yunus claims provoke unrest and derail reconciliation efforts.

“I told Mr Modi, you may host her—I can't stop that. But please ensure she doesn’t speak to Bangladeshis the way she is. He simply replied, ‘It’s social media, we cannot control it.’ But you can’t just walk away saying that,” Yunus said.

Yunus described the current atmosphere in Bangladesh as “explosive,” accusing India of ignoring the destabilizing impact of Hasina’s public statements. “She announces her speeches in advance, and when she talks, the whole country reacts with anger. Why is India allowing this? Why is she still stirring resentment from outside?” he asked.

Diplomatic strain and legal pursuit

The interim government, Yunus confirmed, has submitted an informal request to Indian authorities seeking Hasina’s extradition. While India has acknowledged receipt, there has been no formal response or progress on the matter.

“We don’t want to act out of anger—we want a legal and respectful process. But there’s a rising perception in Bangladesh that Indian media disinformation and political interests are interfering, fueling mistrust,” Yunus said, suggesting parts of the Indian press may be aligned with policymakers to manipulate narratives.

In a significant revelation, Yunus said the International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka has begun proceedings against Hasina for alleged crimes against humanity committed during the final months of her rule. Notices have reportedly been served, and the process may escalate to involve Interpol.

Hasina’s government was toppled after a historic student-led uprising in August 2024, which saw violent crackdowns that killed hundreds. Her party, the Awami League, was disbanded soon after. Yunus returned from Paris on August 8 and assumed charge as interim head of state.

'No political ambitions'

At 84, Yunus insists he has no desire to remain in power or contest in future elections. His advisory cabinet is also staying away from any political aspirations, he said. Meanwhile, several student leaders from last year’s uprising have gone on to form the National Citizen Party (NCP) with support from the transitional regime.

Trials against senior Awami League leaders are ongoing, particularly for their roles during the July–August 2024 crackdown. The interim government maintains these are essential for national healing and justice.

“We are trying to rebuild Bangladesh — carefully, legally, and peacefully. But the ongoing digital provocation from across the border is undoing that work,” Yunus concluded.