Bangladesh Urges India to Extradite Sheikh Hasina for Judicial Proceedings

Bangladesh has formally requested India to extradite its former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to New Delhi in August after violent protests led to her ousting. Acting Foreign Secretary Touhid Hossain announced on Monday that a *note verbale* was sent to the Indian government, asking for Hasina’s return to face judicial proceedings in Bangladesh.

The request comes amidst strained ties between the two South Asian neighbors, despite their strong trade and cultural links. Hasina’s escape to India, following accusations of autocratic rule and violent crackdowns on protesters, has fueled tensions. Nobel laureate and head of Bangladesh’s interim government, Muhammad Yunus, has been vocal in demanding her extradition to face charges of crimes against humanity, genocide, and murder. Hasina has denied all allegations.

India, however, has provided refuge to Hasina, claiming her stay is for "safety reasons." Indian authorities have yet to elaborate on these reasons, sparking criticism in Bangladesh that New Delhi is shielding a leader accused of grave human rights violations during her 15-year tenure. Yunus has also expressed dissatisfaction over Hasina’s criticism of his interim government from the safety of Indian soil.

Responding to Bangladesh’s extradition request, India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed receiving the diplomatic note but declined to comment further. Bangladesh's move follows a visit by Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri earlier this month, during which both sides expressed hopes to restore constructive ties. However, analysts argue that India’s actions suggest interference in Bangladesh’s domestic politics, further complicating the situation.

Sheikh Hasina’s rule was marked by allegations of suppressing dissent and authoritarian governance, which culminated in widespread protests and her eventual removal from power. Bangladesh’s call for extradition reflects growing frustration over what many see as India’s unwillingness to respect the judicial process and allow accountability for her alleged crimes.