Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, has expressed dissatisfaction with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s political statements made from India, describing them as an “unfriendly gesture” in an interview with the news agency PTI.

He noted that Hasina is “sitting in India” and “giving instructions,” which he said is widely disliked.

Yunus told the Indian news agency that Hasina should remain silent until Bangladesh formally requests her extradition. He added that if India wishes to retain her, she should avoid making public comments.

According to the PTI report, Yunus confirmed that Bangladesh has communicated its position to India both verbally and firmly.

"Everyone understands the situation. We have clearly stated that she should remain silent. Her actions are seen as an unfriendly gesture towards us; she has sought refuge there and is actively campaigning from that location. It’s not as if she went there under ordinary circumstances—she fled following a public uprising and widespread anger," Yunus told PTI.

He criticized Hasina’s recent call for justice concerning “terror acts” and killings, calling it problematic and troubling for both nations.

“No one is comfortable with her actions in India because we want her back for trial. Her presence in India and her public statements create issues. If she had stayed silent, the matter might have faded over time. But by speaking out and issuing instructions from India, she is causing discomfort,” Yunus added, as reported by PTI.

He concluded: “This situation is detrimental to both us and India. It creates discomfort on both sides.”

Discussing the future of India-Bangladesh relations, Yunus expressed a desire for strong ties but insisted that India must move away from the belief that only Hasina’s leadership guarantees stability.

He also urged New Delhi to reconsider its portrayal of every party except the Awami League as Islamist. Yunus dismissed India's concerns about the treatment of minority Hindus in Bangladesh as an “excuse,” suggesting that the issue is being exaggerated.

“The way forward is for India to move beyond its current narrative. This narrative suggests that everyone is Islamist, that the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) is Islamist, and that any other party would turn Bangladesh into Afghanistan. It also implies that only Sheikh Hasina can ensure Bangladesh’s safety. India is entangled in this narrative and needs to shift its perspective. Bangladesh, like any other neighboring country, should be seen in a broader context,” he told PTI.

Yunus stressed the importance of both countries collaborating to mend their strained relationship and suggested that certain treaties, such as the Adani electricity deal, might be reviewed if necessary.

“Everyone acknowledges that improvements are needed. We will examine both the written agreements and the actual situation on the ground. I can’t provide a specific answer at this moment. If a review becomes necessary, we will raise concerns accordingly,” he said.

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