Dhaka, Algeria – The Bangladeshi government has formally requested India to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, along with former Interior Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal. The request, issued earlier today, cites their alleged involvement in a crackdown against student protestors last year.
According to official statements from Dhaka, the extradition request is grounded in existing bilateral extradition treaties between Bangladesh and India. The government believes New Delhi is obligated to comply with the treaty and return both individuals to face justice in Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina has reportedly been residing in India since fleeing Bangladesh following widespread and often violent student demonstrations. The specific charges against her and Mr. Kamal relate to the government’s response to those protests, which authorities at the time characterized as a necessary measure to restore order.
Today’s extradition request follows a court ruling in Bangladesh that sentenced both Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death in absentia for their alleged roles in the crackdown. The verdict has sparked considerable debate within Bangladesh and is likely to further strain relations between Dhaka and New Delhi.
The Indian government has yet to officially respond to the extradition request. However, sources within the Indian Ministry of External Affairs suggest that the matter is being carefully considered, taking into account the complexities of the bilateral relationship and the legal implications of the extradition treaty.
The situation remains fluid, and DZWatch will continue to monitor developments closely.
