Bangladesh has formally requested India to return former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to New Delhi in August, to face a judicial process in her home country. The move, announced by the acting head of Bangladesh’s foreign ministry, marks an escalating diplomatic rift between the two South Asian neighbors.
“We sent a note verbale to the Indian government saying that the Bangladesh government wants her [Hasina] back here for judicial process,” said Touhid Hossain, referring to diplomatic communication between the two countries.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed receipt of the request but refrained from commenting further. “At this time, we have no comment to offer on this matter,” said the ministry’s spokesperson.
Tensions Between Dhaka and New Delhi
Relations between the two nations, traditionally linked by strong trade and cultural ties, have grown increasingly strained. The tensions erupted following violent protests that led to Hasina’s removal from power and her subsequent decision to seek refuge across the border.
Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, has publicly demanded Hasina’s extradition. He accused her of crimes against protesters and political opponents during her 15-year tenure, which Hasina has categorically denied.
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“Yunus has also expressed frustration over Hasina’s criticisms of his administration from New Delhi,” sources familiar with the situation said.
Arrest Warrants and Corruption Allegations
The International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka has issued arrest warrants for Hasina and her close aides, accusing them of crimes including genocide, murder, and crimes against humanity. Meanwhile, Bangladesh has also sought Interpol’s assistance in apprehending the former leader.
In addition to the political charges, Bangladesh’s anticorruption commission announced on Monday it is probing allegations that Hasina and her family embezzled $5 billion linked to the Russian-backed Rooppur nuclear power plant project.
“The claims of kickbacks, mismanagement, money laundering, and potential abuse of power raise significant concerns about the integrity of the project and the use of public funds,” the commission stated.
Diplomatic Efforts to Mend Relations
The extradition request comes shortly after India’s foreign secretary visited Bangladesh, during which both nations expressed hopes of mending ties. However, the escalating rhetoric and unresolved issues have cast doubts over immediate progress.
Hasina’s critics claim her administration orchestrated a violent crackdown on protesters, resulting in over 750 deaths, predominantly among youth activists. Dozens of her allies have been detained on charges linked to the unrest.
For her part, Hasina has called for an independent investigation into the killings, suggesting that culpability extends beyond the security forces under her control.
As the two nations navigate this diplomatic challenge, the spotlight remains firmly on Sheikh Hasina and the legal and political storm brewing around her.
