The Ministry of External Affairs of India convened a meeting on September 20 to explore strategies for the potential rehabilitation of Bangladesh’s Awami League (AL), which was ousted from power following popular revolt.

According to sources, the meeting included a broad spectrum of participants, including experts, journalists, bureaucrats, retired diplomats, and professors. Representatives from the Observer Research Foundation, Vivekananda Foundation, and the Institute of Defence Studies and Analysis were also present.

The meeting primarily focused on ensuring the "smooth implementation" of ongoing Indian projects in Bangladesh. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and India was reviewed, with recommendations that the current interim government in Bangladesh not revoke the agreements.

However, discussions soon shifted to the "resettlement" of the AL. According to the minutes obtained by The Mirror Asia, India expressed concerns that if elections are held within the next two or three years, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) might come to power.

The meeting participants speculated that the BNP could become unpopular within five years, potentially leading to a political shift back toward the AL, much like the party's "landslide" victory in 2009.

It emphasized the importance of including the AL in Bangladesh’s current reform process and in any future elections. A think tank representative suggested that India seek advice from its "non-political friends" in Bangladesh before finalizing any plans to resettle the AL.

An intelligence officer disclosed that many AL leaders, from central to grassroots levels, have already taken shelter in Delhi, Kolkata, and Agartala. These leaders have reportedly sought India’s support in their efforts to return to Bangladesh and resume political activities. However, the officer noted that approval from India's All-Party Parliamentary Committee would be required for the AL to operate politically in India.

Responding to this, another expert pointed out that during the 1971 war, the AL had conducted its activities from India, holding meetings in Kolkata and Agartala.

He also highlighted India’s historical precedent of allowing political parties from neighboring countries to operate within its borders during times of crisis, supporting the idea of permitting the AL to organize in India.

However, a retired diplomat cautioned that any political activities of the AL in India should be kept secret to avoid straining relations with Bangladesh’s interim government.

He also suggested that the AL be given an orientation on this matter, as some of its leaders had previously publicly claimed that India had kept Sheikh Hasina in power since 2014, despite India’s denials.

The discussion underscores the delicate balance India must maintain in its relationship with Bangladesh while navigating the political futures of its neighboring country.