The India Bangladesh extradition request involving former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has sparked a major diplomatic discussion this week. India confirmed that it has received Dhaka’s formal appeal for Hasina’s extradition and has now begun examining the request through its internal judicial and legal procedures. This marks a crucial moment in India–Bangladesh relations, especially as the political situation in Dhaka remains tense.
India Reviews Extradition Request Amid Rising Tensions
During a weekly media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India has started evaluating the India Bangladesh extradition request with careful attention to due process. He emphasized that New Delhi remains committed to supporting the people of Bangladesh by promoting stability, democracy, and inclusion.
Jaiswal also noted that India will continue constructive engagement with all stakeholders as the situation evolves. His comments reflect India’s cautious yet deliberate approach, especially after Dhaka renewed its request earlier this month.
Sheikh Hasina Rejects Tribunal Verdict
Bangladesh’s interim government had earlier sentenced Sheikh Hasina to death after the International Crimes Tribunal found her responsible for alleged crimes during the July 2024 demonstrations. Two of her aides also received severe punishments, intensifying the political divide in the country.
However, Hasina strongly rejected the tribunal’s ruling. She claimed that the judgement came from an unelected administration and accused the interim leadership of using the case to erase the Awami League from national politics. According to her, the trial aimed to divert attention from the government’s challenges under Dr. Mohammad Yunus.
Dhaka Awaits India’s Response
Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser M Touhid Hossain acknowledged that India had previously not responded to earlier appeals, but he now expects a formal reply since “the situation has changed.” He added that Dhaka does not expect an immediate answer but believes a response will arrive soon.
Meanwhile, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul stated that the interim government may approach the International Criminal Court to pursue the return of “fugitive convicts,” signalling that the legal and diplomatic tension may continue.
As India weighs the sensitive extradition request, regional stability and political trust remain at the centre of the unfolding issue.
