India Denies Role in Hasina's Media Address

The Indian government has firmly denied any role in the forthcoming media address of Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This denial has been made to assuage the concerns of the Dhaka government, which was worried that the address might jeopardize diplomatic ties between the two countries. The development assumes significance in the backdrop of India extending an invitation to Bangladesh's Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to attend the Brics summit. However, it is unclear whether Rahman will accept the invitation, given the domestic backlash he may face over the extradition of Hasina. The Bangladesh government is yet to officially respond to the Brics invitation.