India Receives Bangladesh's Extradition Request for Sheikh Hasina

India has received a formal note verbale from the Bangladesh High Commission requesting the extradition of Sheikh Hasina, the ousted Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Sources confirmed the development but stated that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has yet to comment on the matter.

Bangladesh Seeks Hasina’s Return

Bangladesh's de facto Foreign Minister, Touhid Hossain, confirmed the request, stating, “We have sent a note verbale to the Indian government saying that Bangladesh wants her back here for the judicial process.” The request aligns with an arrest warrant issued by the Bangladesh-based International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), which accuses Sheikh Hasina and other officials of crimes against humanity and genocide during her 16-year tenure.

Sheikh Hasina, 77, fled Bangladesh on August 5 following widespread protests that led to the collapse of her government. The protests paved the way for a caretaker administration to assume control of the country.

Diplomatic Channels in Action

A note verbale, an unsigned diplomatic communication in the third person, was submitted to India by Bangladesh to facilitate Hasina’s extradition. Bangladesh’s Home Adviser, Jahangir Alam, stated, “We have sent a letter to the foreign ministry regarding her extradition. The process is currently underway.”

India’s Position Unclear

While confirming the receipt of the diplomatic communication, Indian officials have refrained from offering further comments. The matter is expected to undergo a detailed review by the MEA before any official stance is announced.

The extradition request highlights the growing political turmoil in Bangladesh and raises questions about India’s diplomatic stance on a matter involving significant regional implications. For now, the focus remains on the evolving judicial and diplomatic proceedings surrounding Sheikh Hasina’s case.