The extradition request places India in a delicate position as it navigates its relationship with Bangladesh amid growing political instability in Dhaka.
The interim government of Bangladesh has officially requested India to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been living in India since fleeing Bangladesh on August 5. The move marks a significant development in the political and diplomatic dynamics between the two neighbouring countries.
Touhid Hossain, the foreign affairs adviser to the interim government, confirmed on Monday that a diplomatic note, or note verbale, had been sent to the Indian government. “We have sent a note verbale to the Indian government to send the former prime minister back to Bangladesh in this regard,” Hossain said during a press briefing. He added that Hasina’s presence is required for a judicial trial in Dhaka.
The request follows weeks of escalating tensions since massive protests ousted Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year regime. The Dhaka-based International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued arrest warrants against Hasina, her ministers, advisors, and former military and civil officials, accusing them of “crimes against humanity and genocide.”
Existing Extradition Treaty
Lieutenant General (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the home affairs adviser, emphasized that an existing extradition treaty between Bangladesh and India could facilitate the process. Speaking to reporters during an event marking Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Day in Dhaka, Alam stated, “We have sent a letter to the foreign ministry regarding her extradition. The process is currently underway.”
He reiterated that the treaty provided a legal framework for Hasina’s return. “The former prime minister, who fled to India, could be brought back to Bangladesh under the treaty,” he said.
Misri’s Visit
The diplomatic communication comes just weeks after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri visited Bangladesh. During his visit, Misri met with Muhammad Yunus, Nobel laureate and chief advisor of the interim government. They discussed bilateral relations and the status of Sheikh Hasina, among other pressing issues. Misri described the talks as “frank, candid, and constructive,” and highlighted concerns over attacks on minorities in Bangladesh.
A statement from the Chief Advisor’s office noted that Hasina’s stay in India was a topic of concern. “Our people are concerned because she is making many statements from there. It creates tensions,” Yunus reportedly said.
Hasina’s Counterclaims
From her place of exile, Sheikh Hasina has criticised the interim government, accusing it of authoritarianism. In a virtual address to Awami League supporters in London, she alleged that Muhammad Yunus orchestrated the political turmoil that led to her ousting.
“Bangladesh is now under the grip of a fascist regime where people’s democratic rights have been obliterated,” Hasina said. She also condemned the rising attacks on minorities, including Hindus, Christians, and Buddhists. “The Jamaat and terrorists are having a free run under the new regime,” she claimed.
Hasina further accused the interim government of undoing her administration’s achievements in poverty alleviation, infrastructure development, and democracy strengthening. “Our government’s achievements are being undone under Yunus’s leadership,” she asserted.
The extradition request places India in a delicate position as it navigates its relationship with Bangladesh amid growing political instability in Dhaka.
