By After the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government in Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, many senior leaders of the Awami League went into hiding, with a significant number fleeing to India. They consider this a temporary retreat due to the political situation in their home country. Former members of parliament and party officials are mainly based in West Bengal, Delhi, and Tripura, staying in rented homes. Some leaders also moved to Europe. The exiled politicians remain connected with party members in Bangladesh through digital platforms, coordinating events and maintaining morale. The journey to India was risky, with many avoiding well-known border checkpoints to prevent detection.
Some crossed through remote areas, including forests and mountains, making the journey difficult. Several Awami League leaders have described their escape as secretive, with fears of being recognized or targeted by security forces. Many of them had to abandon their families, and some even missed significant personal events, such as funerals of close relatives, due to their exile. Sheikh Hasina, now residing in India, remains in contact with her party members through WhatsApp and Telegram.
She provides guidance and continues to influence party activities in Bangladesh through digital communication. Despite being in exile, the Awami League leadership is actively strategizing, organizing events, and keeping their movement alive. Their presence in India has sparked political tension between Bangladesh and India, with ongoing debates about their status and future in the region.
