India has clarified its position on Bangladesh's request for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, stating that legal aspects of the matter are currently under consideration.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said India is examining Bangladesh's formal extradition request while taking into account the relevant legal provisions and bilateral considerations. No final decision has been taken on the matter.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said India has received a formal request from Bangladesh seeking Sheikh Hasina's extradition. He said the request is being examined in accordance with applicable legal provisions and other necessary considerations.
The spokesperson also said India will proceed in line with its established legal procedures and international obligations. However, he did not specify any timeline for a final decision.
The issue has drawn attention amid reports that Sheikh Hasina may return to Bangladesh in the future to reactivate her political party, the Awami League. However, there has been no official confirmation of such reports.
Political analysts believe such a development could have implications for Bangladesh's political landscape. For now, speculation regarding her possible return continues.
Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister on August 5, 2024, amid a large student movement and widespread violent protests across Bangladesh. She subsequently left the country and has been residing in India since then.
Following her resignation, Bangladesh underwent major political changes. A new interim administration was formed, and investigations were initiated into several decisions and actions of the previous government.
Several legal cases have been registered against Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh. Last year, a special tribunal convicted her in absentia and sentenced her to death in a case related to violence and government actions during the 2024 student movement.
Bangladeshi authorities have said the former prime minister should face judicial proceedings and have sought her extradition from India for that purpose.
Sheikh Hasina has rejected all the allegations against her, stating that the legal proceedings are politically motivated and intended to target her.
The decision on any extradition request is determined not solely at the political level but on the basis of the applicable extradition treaty between the countries concerned, domestic laws and international legal principles.
Before deciding on an extradition request, India reviews the relevant legal documents, court orders, human rights considerations and bilateral agreements. Such proceedings can be lengthy, with a final decision reached only after multiple legal stages.
