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Bangladesh Demands India Extradite Fugitive Ex-PM Sheikh Hasina

Source: Bangladesh asks India to extradite fugitive ex-PM Sheikh Hasina (2025-11-23)

Bangladesh has formally requested India to extradite Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister, who is currently in hiding in India after being sentenced to death in absentia for her role in a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising. This move underscores ongoing tensions between Dhaka and New Delhi over political accountability and regional security. Sheikh Hasina, 78, has long been a prominent political figure in Bangladesh, leading the Awami League and shaping the country's modern political landscape. Her current status as a fugitive has raised concerns about regional stability, diplomatic relations, and the rule of law. Recent developments reveal that Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Foreign Minister Touhid Hossain, sent a formal extradition request to India two days prior to the report, emphasizing Dhaka’s belief that India has an “obligatory responsibility” to cooperate. The request comes amid heightened political tensions, with Bangladesh accusing Hasina of orchestrating or being complicit in the crackdown, which resulted in numerous deaths and injuries during last year’s protests. The sentencing of Hasina to death in her absence marks a significant escalation in Bangladesh’s efforts to hold political leaders accountable, even those in exile. **Recent Facts and Contextual Developments:** 1. **Historical Political Ties:** Sheikh Hasina has been a central figure in Bangladesh politics since the 1980s, leading the Awami League to multiple electoral victories and shaping the nation’s democratic trajectory. Her political career has been marked by efforts to modernize Bangladesh and improve regional relations, especially with India. 2. **Exile and Diplomatic Relations:** Hasina has been residing in India for several years, citing safety concerns and political persecution. Her presence in India has been a point of diplomatic contention, with Bangladesh accusing her of seeking refuge while India maintains a policy of non-interference in neighboring countries’ internal affairs. 3. **Legal Proceedings and International Law:** Bangladesh’s request for extradition aligns with international legal standards, which obligate countries to cooperate in the apprehension of fugitives, especially those sentenced to death for serious crimes. India’s extradition laws require a thorough legal process, including assurances that the death penalty will not be carried out if extradited. 4. **Regional Security Implications:** The extradition process has broader implications for regional stability, as it could set a precedent for political leaders facing legal action in their home countries. It also raises questions about the influence of external actors and the role of international law in resolving political disputes. 5. **Recent Political Climate:** The move comes amid a tense political climate in Bangladesh, with opposition parties criticizing the government’s handling of protests and legal actions against political figures. The government claims these measures are necessary for justice and national stability. 6. **India’s Position:** India has historically maintained a neutral stance, emphasizing diplomatic channels and legal procedures. However, the extradition request could test India’s commitment to international law and its diplomatic relations with Bangladesh, especially if Hasina’s supporters mobilize protests or diplomatic protests. 7. **Global Reactions:** International human rights organizations have expressed concern over the fairness of the trial and the use of the death penalty in Bangladesh. The extradition process may attract scrutiny from global bodies, emphasizing the importance of due process and human rights protections. 8. **Potential Outcomes:** If India agrees to extradite Hasina, it could lead to her trial in Bangladesh, potentially impacting her political future and the country’s political landscape. Conversely, refusal could deepen diplomatic tensions and complicate regional cooperation efforts. 9. **Historical Precedents:** Similar extradition cases in South Asia, such as the extradition of political figures or fugitives, have often been influenced by diplomatic relations, legal considerations, and international pressure. The outcome of this case could influence future extradition requests in the region. 10. **Future Prospects:** The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic negotiations and legal considerations. Both Bangladesh and India are likely to seek a resolution that balances legal obligations, regional stability, and diplomatic relations, while international observers watch closely. This development highlights the complex interplay of law, politics, and diplomacy in South Asia. As Bangladesh pushes for Hasina’s extradition, the case underscores the importance of adhering to international legal standards and respecting political processes, even amid regional tensions. The outcome will have significant implications for regional diplomacy, the rule of law, and the future of political accountability in Bangladesh.

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