The interim administration of Bangladesh has formally asked for the extradition of Sheikh Hasina, the former prime minister, who has been living in exile in India since August 5, 2024. Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain said that a diplomatic note was submitted to the Indian government with this request. According to him, the note highlights the necessity of Hasina’s return to Dhaka for legal processes concerning grave accusations made against her and a number of previous officials, including “crimes against humanity and genocide” as defined by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).
Following growing demonstrations that resulted in her removal earlier this year, Sheikh Hasina, the leader of the Awami League party and prime minister for more than 20 years, left Bangladesh. Allegations of electoral fraud and general dissatisfaction with her government’s handling of political dissent served as major catalysts for the protests. Arrest warrants were obtained against her and other senior officials from her administration after she left.
An existing treaty between India and Bangladesh supports the extradition procedure and may make Hasina’s return easier. Work is being done to formally submit this request to India’s External Affairs Ministry, according to Home Advisor Jahangir Alam. However, considering the delicate nature of the matter and its possible ramifications, it is yet unclear how India will react to this diplomatic message.
