Dhaka, September 01 — The Bangladesh government is currently unaware of the exact status of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India following the cancellation of her special privilege red passport. This information was revealed by Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain during a conversation with reporters on Sunday. 

Responding to questions about Sheikh Hasina's status in India and the reason for her continued stay, Adviser Touhid Hossain stated, "The red passport has been automatically cancelled. If there is any need to know her status there, one should ask India directly."

In his remarks, Hossain mentioned that if the government seeks to reinstate the red passport, there would be costs involved. "If there is a legal question, we could request a refund. If a court directs us to bring her back, we will attempt to facilitate that process," he explained.

When asked about any obligation to reclaim the passport, Hossain clarified that the decision ultimately rests with India. "Whether India decides to return it or not is their prerogative. There is a legal framework in place, and if we are required by the legal system to bring her back, we will make the necessary efforts," he said.

Regarding Indian projects in Bangladesh, Hossain expressed the need to complete ongoing initiatives while acknowledging a growing anti-India sentiment within the country. "There is a kind of fear, if not panic, among Indians due to this sentiment. I hope they can overcome that fear," he remarked when asked about the prevailing concerns.

When questioned about the government's stance on the memoranda of understanding (MoUs) signed by the previous administration with India, Hossain clarified that an MoU does not equate to a binding agreement. "We will assess whether our interests are adequately protected. Our actions will always be guided by the need to safeguard our national interests," he said.

In a related development, the Chief Adviser is scheduled to leave for New York for a short visit to attend the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain indicated that during this visit, the Chief Adviser might hold meetings with several heads of state and government. 

These statements from the Foreign Adviser reflect the government's cautious approach to both domestic and international concerns, emphasising legal processes and national interests in their dealings.