The Washington Post on Friday reported that India pressurized US to avert sanctions against former Bangladesh’s PM, Sheikh Hasina, amid accusations of human rights violations.
According to the report, the US was planning imposing sanctions on Hasina over the detainment of political rivals, suppression of freedom of expression, and other human rights abuses in Bangladesh.
US diplomats had earlier denounced Hasina for stopping opposition candidates from participating in the recent elections.
Things got worse when Hasina blamed the US of toppling her government, prompting US senators to urge President Joe Biden to impose sanctions on her administration.
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However, India interceded at high-level meetings, requesting to the US not to impose sanctions on PM Hasina.
The report reveals that Indian officials requested soft reaction towards her, highlighting the strategic importance of Bangladesh to India.
Speaking to the Washington Post under the condition of anonymity, an Indian official stated that they had told US authorities that the situation in Bangladesh was of significant importance to India.
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The official maintained that without consensus on strategic issues, the US could not regard India as a strategic partner.
