India's Ministry of External Affairs has clarified that the government had no role in former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's recent virtual press briefing, describing the event as an initiative of a private media organisation.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said the Indian government neither organised nor facilitated the event and did not endorse statements made during the interaction, particularly comments concerning Bangladesh's current government.

The clarification came after Hasina's virtual media interaction attracted attention in both India and Bangladesh.

Hasina Says She Plans to Return to Bangladesh

Sheikh Hasina, who left Bangladesh amid major anti-government protests in August 2024, said during the audio-only virtual interaction that she intends to return to the country in December.

Hasina said she remains committed to restoring democracy and putting Bangladesh back on what she described as the right path.

Her comments come amid continuing political uncertainty in Bangladesh and ongoing debate over her future and possible legal proceedings.

India Says Parliament Will Decide FCRA Bill

During the briefing, India also addressed criticism surrounding the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, or FCRA, and said Parliament would take the final decision on the proposed legislation.

The government has maintained that legislative decisions will follow India's established parliamentary process.

The FCRA regulates foreign contributions to individuals, associations and organisations in India, making proposed changes to the law a matter of significant political and public interest.

India Addresses Regional Security Concerns

The MEA briefing also touched on wider regional developments, including defence and security issues affecting India's neighbourhood.

India continues to monitor developments across South Asia and the wider region as geopolitical tensions and security concerns evolve.

Officials also reiterated India's commitment to protecting Indian seafarers operating in the Gulf region, particularly amid heightened security concerns affecting shipping and maritime routes.

India Maintains Diplomatic Position on Bangladesh

New Delhi's clarification regarding Hasina's press briefing reflects India's position that private events should not be interpreted as official government initiatives.

India has continued to maintain diplomatic engagement with Bangladesh while stressing that the country's government is a duly constituted authority.

Hasina's latest public remarks, meanwhile, have added another dimension to the political situation surrounding Bangladesh and her future role in the country's political landscape.