New Delhi, Jan 7 (NationPress) The return of Tarique Rahman, a prominent leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), to Dhaka after a 17-year absence, is not a sign of renewal or reform for Bangladesh, but may instead exacerbate political divisions, according to Sheikh Hasina, the ousted Prime Minister of Bangladesh, in an exclusive interview with IANS on Wednesday.

“Tarique Rahman’s return does not signify renewal or reform; it signifies a return to a political landscape that has cost Bangladesh dearly,” remarked the 78-year-old former leader.

“He has enjoyed years of comfortable exile, disconnected from the daily struggles of the average Bangladeshi, having evaded accountability for corruption and misuse of power,” she added, noting her lineage as the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh.

The 58-year-old, also known as Tarique Zia, is the son of former President Ziaur Rahman and the first female Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. He faces allegations from Hasina’s government regarding his involvement in corruption and operating a parallel power structure during Khaleda's tenure. As Bangladesh grapples with turmoil and violence, attention is now focused on Tarique Rahman, who is spearheading a BNP-led coalition in the upcoming general elections set for February 12.

His return to Dhaka after nearly two decades in the UK has reignited discussions on the future of India–Bangladesh relations. His actions are being closely observed not only by New Delhi but also by other nations.

While he appeals to the BNP's nationalist base, which often harbors skepticism towards India, he is attempting to portray himself as a protector of Bangladesh's sovereignty, signaling a balanced stance towards India, China, and Pakistan.

However, Sheikh Hasina stated to IANS that instead of moving towards renewal or reform, Tarique’s return may deepen the existing political polarization in Bangladesh.

Currently, Bangladesh faces uncertainty and fear, particularly for minority communities, following Sheikh Hasina's ousting. There has been a notable increase in mob violence and targeted attacks against minorities, especially Hindus.

Reports indicate that at least 11 Hindus have been killed across Bangladesh within a span of 35 days.

This reflects a troubling trend of escalating violence against minority groups since Hasina's removal in 2024.

The recent lynching incidents involving members of minority communities have raised alarms among international human rights organizations.

“His presence is likely to intensify political polarization rather than reconcile it. Effective leadership demands accountability, transparency, and engagement with the populace, rather than directives from abroad followed by a sudden return when conditions seem advantageous,” said Sheikh Hasina.

The BNP alliance is currently considered to be gaining traction ahead of the February 12 elections.

Tarique Rahman, often referred to as the “dark prince,” appears to be leading the race for the position of Bangladesh’s next Prime Minister, according to various reports.

“Recently, we have witnessed a disturbing wave of intimidation and coercion by BNP supporters compelling ordinary Bangladeshis, including Awami League backers, to vote for their party under threats of violence or destruction,” Hasina informed IANS.

Expressing her concerns about the future in light of the upcoming elections, the former Prime Minister emphasized, “Bangladesh’s future cannot rely on individuals whose political legacies are marred by corruption, violence, and alliances with extremist factions.”

Meanwhile, a court in Dhaka has scheduled January 21 to present charges in a high-profile sedition case involving approximately 285-286 accused, including the former Prime Minister.

This is one of multiple legal proceedings against Sheikh Hasina since her ousting, with a separate tribunal in November issuing a death sentence in absentia over “crimes against humanity” allegations, according to reports.