Bangladesh’s interim government announced on Monday that it has formally requested India to extradite deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina to Dhaka.
The 77-year-old former leader has been living in exile in India since August 5, after fleeing the country during massive student-led protests that ended her 16-year rule. The Dhaka-based International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued arrest warrants against Hasina and several former Cabinet members, advisers, and military and civil officials, accusing them of “crimes against humanity and genocide.”
Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain, effectively acting as the foreign minister, confirmed the development. “We have sent a note verbale [diplomatic message] to the Indian government, stating that Bangladesh seeks her return to face the judicial process,” he told reporters.
Earlier in the day, Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam informed the media that his office had initiated the process by sending a letter to the foreign ministry. “We have formally requested the foreign ministry to facilitate her extradition. The process is currently underway,” he said.
Alam noted that an extradition treaty already exists between Bangladesh and India, providing a legal framework for Hasina’s return. “She can be brought back under the provisions of this treaty,” he added.
The extradition request is seen as a significant step in addressing the political and judicial developments following Hasina’s removal from power and her subsequent flight to India.
