Bangladesh’s ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has landed at Hindon Air Base in Ghaziabad, India, aboard a C-130 transport aircraft. The plane, which entered Indian airspace earlier today, was closely monitored by the Indian Air Force until it safely touched down.
According to reports, Hasina’s arrival was meticulously tracked by the Air Force. She will be temporarily stationed at the Hindon base, which houses the Indian Air Force’s C-17 and C-130J Super Hercules aircraft.
Diplomatic sources indicate that after her stay in India, Hasina is expected to fly to London. It remains unclear whether she will continue her journey to London on the same aircraft or switch to a different plane.
A senior Air Force officer was on hand to receive the former Bangladeshi leader. The Indian government, while not officially commenting on the situation in Dhaka, has been providing safe passage through its airspace following a request from the Bangladeshi authorities.
Earlier today, Bangladesh Army Chief General Waqar-uz-Zaman confirmed Hasina’s resignation and announced that an interim government would be established. In his televised address, General Zaman stated, “I’m taking all responsibility (of the country). Please cooperate,” and assured that the army would handle law and order.
Sheikh Hasina fled Bangladesh after violent protests erupted, resulting in over 100 deaths in just two days. The protests were triggered by the controversial quota system that reserved 30 percent of civil service jobs for families of veterans from the 1971 liberation war.
Reports suggest that Hasina’s departure was on the advice of her security team, as she was not prepared to leave under such circumstances. In response to the unfolding situation, Delhi police have heightened security around the Bangladesh High Commission, increasing both barricades and police presence to ensure safety.
The situation continues to develop, with the Indian government and diplomatic community closely monitoring the events in Dhaka.