Indian intelligence sources quoted by Indian media have revealed that Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) is orchestrating efforts to destabilise the Awami League government in Bangladesh by manipulating student groups. The aim, according to sources, is to replace Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina with a government more favourable to Pakistan, in a move described as an attempt to “create ripples” in the region.
The ISI is reportedly leveraging the student wing of Jamaat-e-Islami, known as Chhatra Shivir, to heighten tensions and incite unrest in Dhaka. Jamaat-e-Islami, a party with close ties to Pakistan, is said to receive regular funding and directives from the Pakistani mission in Dhaka. The Pakistani embassy has even taken an unusual step by offering refuge to students within its premises, an action rarely undertaken by diplomatic missions.
According to sources, the ISI views the Awami League government as being closely aligned with India and believes its removal will disrupt regional stability. The ultimate goal is to usher in a government led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami, which would be more supportive of Pakistani interests.
The ISI’s tactics are reportedly mirroring those used in Kashmir, where provocations and unrest are employed to draw international attention and pressure for neutral intervention. The strategy aims to create conditions for a new election process, ideally under UN supervision, to facilitate the rise of a pro-Pakistan government.
The ISI’s efforts are backed by significant financial resources and a network of assets in Bangladesh, which they are reportedly exploiting to foment unrest. The student movement, particularly active in Dhaka University, has historically been a powerful force in Bangladeshi politics, with a history of involvement in significant uprisings.
Additionally, Indian media further alleged that the role of China in the current situation is also under scrutiny, given its strong economic ties with the Hasina government. The recent escalation of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh is viewed as part of a broader strategy to generate anti-India sentiment and further destabilise the region.
The unrest has reached a critical point, with protests intensifying over the past month. On Monday, demonstrators breached the gates of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s residence in Dhaka, following her flight from the city. Crowds, some celebrating on top of a tank, have taken to the streets, marking a dramatic escalation in the ongoing crisis.
