"Free life in Delhi, but patriotism is still strong"; Sheikh Hasina's emotional statement

New Delhi/Dhaka, Oct 29, 2025: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said that although she expressed her happiness of living freely in Delhi, the flame of patriotism is still burning in her heart. "I am living freely in Delhi, but I would like to return home," she said in an emotional statement, referring to her situation in the backdrop of the political crisis in Bangladesh. The statement shows the inner conflict of the leader who is displaced due to the current political instability in Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina's statement came to light during an exclusive interview. Talking about her current life, the 77-year-old leader, who is taking refuge in India, praised the peaceful environment in Delhi. "Here I can move freely, meet friends and live without any fear. But I always miss Bangladesh. I am willing to go back there and work for my people," she explained. Although this statement has been criticized by various political groups, including protesters in Bangladesh, it has been an inspiration for Hasina's supporters.
If we look at the political history of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina's statement becomes even more significant. Hasina, who was the Prime Minister of Bangladesh from 2009 to 2024, accelerated the country's economic development under the leadership of the Awami League party. During her term, the GDP rate reached 6 percent, poverty rates decreased and Bangladesh emerged as an important economy internationally. However, her government fell due to widespread protests triggered by the student movement in 2024. Hundreds of people died in this movement, and Hasina had to resign from her post and flee to India. After that, a military rule was established in Bangladesh, and the new interim government has filed several cases against Hasina.
Talking about Hasina's stay in Delhi, political analysts say that India has granted her political asylum, which has strengthened bilateral relations. "Sheikh Hasina's statement is not just a personal sentiment, but a signal for the restoration of democracy in Bangladesh," said Dr. Arun Kumar, a renowned political commentator and expert at Jantar Mantar. According to him, Hasina's willingness to return indicates the possibility of a comeback for the Awami League party. However, the current government in Bangladesh has reacted strongly to this, with interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus saying, "Hasina's return will create chaos in the country." Hasina, who lives in Delhi, has now returned to normal life. She is accompanied by her family and close associates. Her day is cut short by exercising in the morning, reading books and chatting with friends. However, she keeps an eye on the news from Bangladesh every night and keeps in touch with supporters back home. "I am happy in Delhi, but this happiness is partial. My country is calling me," she expressed her feelings once again in an interview. This statement has started a heated discussion among Bangladeshi and Indian users on social media. Hashtags like #SheikhHasinaReturn are trending.
This statement becomes more interesting in the context of India-Bangladesh relations. India has always supported Sheikh Hasina, and the bond of friendship between the two countries has been strong since the 1971 liberation war. However, the Indian government is yet to clarify its official position on Hasina's return. "We consider all aspects as a country granting political asylum. Hasina's safety is a priority for us," said an official in the Ministry of External Affairs. On the other hand, the opposition in Bangladesh has termed the statement as "the drama of a fugitive leader".
Some notable events in Sheikh Hasina's career include her cooperation with India for Rohingya refugees, as well as the Ganga Water Sharing Agreement. However, the opposition has increased due to allegations of corruption during her rule and electoral irregularities. Now, despite this quiet life in Delhi, Hasina has her eyes on her homeland. "I will keep fighting, because Bangladesh is mine," she finally asserted.
This statement raises questions about the political future of Bangladesh. While Awami League supporters may take to the streets to demand Hasina's return, the opposition may take a more assertive stance. This is a diplomatic challenge for India, which needs to take care of the stability of its neighboring country. This emotional statement by Sheikh Hasina is not just personal, but could be the beginning of a new chapter in South Asian politics. Everyone is curious to see what will happen in the future.