Bangladesh’s New Government Frees Al-Qaeda Linked Terrorist: India Worried

Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has been met with mixed reactions. While some see it as a return to democracy, others are concerned about the release of a convicted terrorist. Jasimuddin Rahman, the leader of the Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), which has links to Al-Qaeda, was granted parole on August 26th. The ABT is known for its anti-India stance and has been involved in violent attacks in the past. The release of Rahman, who was convicted of involvement in the murder of a Bangladeshi blogger in 2013, has heightened concerns in India about the potential for increased terrorist activity. India has been particularly concerned about the ABT’s activities in the northeastern region, where they have attempted to establish bases and recruit members. The ABT’s actions, coupled with the release of Rahman, have raised serious questions about the new government’s commitment to fighting terrorism.