Dhaka, Aug 8: In a dramatic shift from 15 years under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus has been sworn in as the head of Bangladesh's interim government.

Yunus, who took the oath on Thursday, promised to "uphold, support, and protect the constitution and perform my duties sincerely" during a swearing-in ceremony held amid significant unrest in the country.

The turmoil followed student-led protests that led to Hasina's resignation and departure from Bangladesh on Monday.

At 84, Yunus was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his pioneering work in microcredit and microfinance through the Grameen Bank.

He was sworn in shortly after returning to Dhaka from Paris, where he had been receiving medical treatment.

The oath was administered by Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin at the Bangabhaban, the presidential residence.

PM Modi sends best wishes 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Yunus and expressed hopes for a quick return to stability in Bangladesh, stressing the need for the protection of Hindus and other minority communities.

"My best wishes to Professor Muhammad Yunus on his new role. We hope for a swift return to normalcy and the safety of Hindus and all minority communities.

India is committed to working with Bangladesh to achieve peace, security, and development for both our peoples," Modi said on 'X'.