Former Indian diplomat and Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar has stated that Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina should be allowed to stay in India for as long as she wishes. Speaking to PTI on Saturday evening during the 16th APJ Kolkata Literary Festival, Aiyar expressed satisfaction over Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri's recent visit to Dhaka and discussions with local authorities, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dialogue and ministerial-level engagements between New Delhi and Dhaka.

Regarding Bangladesh's demand for Hasina's return, Aiyar remarked, "She has done a lot of good for us, and I believe we should not contest that. I am glad she has been given refuge, and I think we should host her as long as she desires, even if it is for her entire lifetime."

He also acknowledged reports of attacks on the Hindu minority in Bangladesh but noted that most of these individuals are Hasina's supporters. While admitting that such incidents occur, he described them as exaggerated and largely rooted in political conflicts and disagreements.