Dhaka, Feb. 2 -- Relations between India and Bangladesh can and should move beyond the issue of Sheikh Hasina, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has told Indian news magazine The Week.

In response to a question on the ousted prime minister during an interview published online on Sunday, Fakhrul said:

"She is a factor, but not an insurmountable one. Sheikh Hasina created this crisis by dismantling democratic institutions and centralising power. In the long run, she will not remain relevant in politics. Relations between India and Bangladesh can and should move forward beyond her."

Asked about what issues must be resolved between the neighbours amid recent tensions, he said:

"First, water-sharing issues must be resolved ...