Bangladesh has finalized all legal procedures required to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, placing the next steps squarely with New Delhi. Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman announced the completion of Dhaka's legal obligations, emphasizing that her return should occur under the existing bilateral extradition treaty.
Why Bangladesh Seeks Hasina's Extradition
Sheikh Hasina, 79, fled Bangladesh in August 2024 following a widespread student-led uprising that ultimately led to the collapse of her government. In November 2025, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal convicted her in absentia for crimes against humanity related to the crackdown on protesters during the July-August 2024 unrest. She received a death sentence on one charge and life imprisonment on another, charges she has consistently rejected.
Despite an interim administration handing over power to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's elected government in February, Bangladesh has continued its pursuit of Hasina's extradition.
India's Stance and Diplomatic Context
India has acknowledged receiving Bangladesh's extradition requests but has not yet announced a definitive decision. Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the matter is a legal one and will be addressed through appropriate legal channels. Jaiswal reiterated India's desire for a "positive, constructive and forward-looking relationship with Bangladesh."
Diplomatic tensions briefly arose after Hasina hosted an audio-only virtual press conference from New Delhi in August, where she announced plans to return to Bangladesh in December. Dhaka formally objected to the event, prompting India to clarify that it was privately organized without government involvement. Bangladesh has also indicated that progress on the Sheikh Hasina extradition could be linked to a potential visit by Prime Minister Rahman to India.
Hasina's Latest Actions
Recently, Sheikh Hasina approached the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, through a London-based legal firm, seeking a new passport and national identity card. Bangladeshi authorities confirmed that these applications are under review, while officials reiterated their commitment to pursuing her return under the existing extradition treaty.