A formal response from India is still pending concerning Bangladesh’s request for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina has been sentenced to death for her involvement in crimes against humanity during the July-August 2024 violence. Bangladesh had formally approached India with the extradition request last week following her conviction.
Speaking on the matter, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser M Touhid Hossain conveyed that the country anticipates India’s reply, noting the significance of the completed judicial process and Hasina’s sentencing. The communication to New Delhi specifically invoked the bilateral extradition treaty, emphasizing India’s ‘binding duty’ to return the absconding convict.
In its official communication, the Bangladeshi Ministry of External Affairs declared that harboring individuals convicted of crimes against humanity would be considered a deeply unfriendly act and an affront to justice. The ministry urged the Indian government to immediately deport and hand over Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, stressing the treaty obligation.
India had previously acknowledged the International Crimes Tribunal’s verdict and stated its intention to engage constructively with Bangladesh to further the interests of the Bangladeshi people, affirming its support for peace and stability in the nation.