By Prof. S.S. Dogra
NEW DELHI, Aug. 5: Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday reaffirmed her commitment to democracy and constitutional values, announcing her intention to return to Bangladesh in December 2026 while addressing a packed press conference at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club (FCC) of South Asia, New Delhi, through an audio message.
The high-profile media interaction, attended by senior journalists, editors, media professionals and members of the diplomatic fraternity, marked Hasina’s first public media address since leaving office in 2024. Her remarks attracted widespread attention from Indian and international media amid continuing political developments in Bangladesh.
In her address, Hasina described the legal proceedings against her as politically motivated and called for the restoration of democratic institutions in Bangladesh. She urged the lifting of restrictions on the Awami League and appealed for the release of political detainees, emphasizing that democratic rights, constitutional governance and the rule of law must prevail.
The press conference concluded with an interactive session during which journalists raised questions on Bangladesh’s current political situation, prospects for democratic restoration and regional stability. The discussion reflected sustained international interest in the country’s evolving political landscape and its wider implications for South Asia.
On the sidelines of the event, this correspondent had a brief interaction with Dr. Pradip R. Kar, President of the Genocide ’71 Foundation, USA. Originally from Bangladesh and now a permanent resident of the United States, Dr. Kar highlighted the Foundation’s mission to promote global awareness of the 1971 Bangladesh Genocide and preserve its historical legacy through research, education and international advocacy.
The discussion also focused on democracy, freedom of expression, human rights and the importance of strengthening people-to-people ties through constructive dialogue and international cooperation. The interaction reflected a shared commitment among media professionals and civil society leaders to advancing peace, historical justice and democratic values in South Asia.
Subsequently, India’s Ministry of External Affairs clarified that the media event had been organised by a private entity and was not an official Government of India programme.
The event once again demonstrated the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia’s role as a distinguished forum for dialogue on regional and global issues, bringing together journalists, diplomats, scholars and public intellectuals to exchange views on matters of international significance.
