New Delhi: External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar disclosed in Parliament on Tuesday that former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, following a meeting with security officials, decided to resign from her position and sought refuge in India.

“On 5th August, demonstrators converged in Dhaka despite the curfew. Our understanding is that after a meeting with leaders of the security establishment, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina apparently made the decision to resign. At very short notice, she requested approval to come for the moment to India. We simultaneously received a request for flight clearance from Bangladesh authorities," Dr. Jaishankar stated.

Addressing concerns over Indian nationals in Bangladesh, Dr. Jaishankar assured Parliament that the Indian government is closely monitoring the situation. "We are in close and continuous touch with the Indian community in Bangladesh through our diplomatic missions. There are an estimated 19,000 Indian nationals there, including approximately 9,000 students," he informed.

Highlighting recent developments, he noted, "The bulk of the students returned in July. We are also monitoring the situation with regard to the status of minorities. There are reports of initiatives by various groups and organisations to ensure their protection and well-being."

Dr. Jaishankar emphasized India's proactive measures in response to the evolving situation. "Our border guarding forces have been instructed to be exceptionally alert in view of this complex situation. In the last 24 hours, we have been in touch with authorities in Dhaka," he added.