Dhaka has formally requested New Delhi to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been in exile since fleeing the country on August 5, 2024, amid widespread protests that led to her ousting. The request was communicated through a diplomatic note known as a “note verbale,” which was sent to the Indian government on December 23, 2024.
Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser, Touhid Hossain, stated that the government wants Hasina back for a judicial process related to serious allegations against her during her tenure.
Earlier, Home Advisor Jahangir Alam confirmed that his office has sent a letter to the External Affairs Ministry to facilitate this extradition, stating, “We have sent a letter to the foreign ministry regarding her extradition. The process is currently underway”
The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has indicated that it plans to prosecute Hasina for various charges, including “crimes against humanity” linked to the violent crackdown on protests that resulted in significant casualties among the youth.
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka has issued arrest warrants for Hasina and several former officials for their roles in these events. The extradition request is supported by an existing treaty between Bangladesh and India, which allows for the return of individuals charged with serious crimes, although it also includes provisions that could complicate extradition if political motives are suspected.
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