US revokes visa for Bangladesh’s ousted PM Sheikh Hasina

Sheikh Hasina, the ousted Prime Minister of Bangladesh, has recently had her visa revoked by the United States. According to reports from sources close to Bangladesh’s opposition, News 18 disclosed on Tuesday that the US has cancelled the visa of ousted PM Sheikh Hasina. This move comes amidst severe unrest in Bangladesh, which has been characterized by widespread rioting and protests over government employment quotas. Ousted PM Sheikh Hasina, who announced her resignation on Monday in the midst of escalating violence, has faced significant international scrutiny.

Historically, Sheikh Hasina maintained a positive relationship with the United States. The US viewed her as an ally on critical issues such as combating Islamist terrorism and providing asylum to Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar. However, recent developments have strained this relationship. Concerns about democratic governance and increasing criticism of her authoritarian tendencies led to the imposition of visa restrictions by the US. This visa cancellation reflects a broader trend where the US has been increasingly critical of leaders who are perceived as undermining democratic norms.

Critics argue that the US’s involvement in international conflicts often aligns with its strategic interests and can result in significant consequences for leaders who fall out of favor. As tensions rise in Bangladesh, many believe that international asylum should be extended to Sheikh Hasina. Yet, apart from India, which has shown some willingness to offer support, other nations have largely remained unresponsive.

Bangladesh’s Ousted PM Sheikh Hasina Seeks Asylum in the UK

Sheikh Hasina has reportedly sought asylum in the United Kingdom following her ousting. However, there are growing concerns about her ability to secure refuge in the UK. The UK Home Office informed NDTV on Tuesday that current British immigration rules do not permit individuals to travel to the UK solely to seek asylum or temporary refuge. “The UK has a proud record of providing protection for people who need it. However, there is no provision for someone to be allowed to travel to the UK to seek asylum or temporary refuge,” the UK government stated.

The situation in Bangladesh remains volatile as security forces attempt to quell the disturbances that have claimed hundreds of lives. The political landscape has shifted dramatically, with Sheikh Hasina leaving the country in a helicopter after the military turned against her. The president of Bangladesh has since dissolved the legislature, paving the way for new elections to replace the long-serving Prime Minister who resigned amid mounting protests.

Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel laureate from Bangladesh, has emerged as a potential leader of the transitional administration. Yunus, known for his groundbreaking work in microfinance, expressed his readiness to lead the interim government. In a statement to AFP, Yunus said, “I am honored by the trust of the protesters who wish for me to lead the interim government.” He further emphasized his commitment to addressing the nation’s needs and ensuring free elections. Yunus’s involvement could provide a new direction for Bangladesh’s political future.

Bangladesh’s Ousted PM Sheikh Hasina and Current Crisis

The recent political turmoil in Bangladesh, marked by violent protests and the ousting of Sheikh Hasina, underscores the challenges facing the nation. Hasina, who had been in office since 2009, faced significant backlash following accusations of manipulating the January elections. The protests, which initially started over employment quotas, have escalated into a larger movement demanding her resignation.

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