Dhaka has officially requested New Delhi to clarify its stance regarding the upcoming virtual address by Bangladesh's exiled former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, from India. The Bangladeshi government expressed significant concern that political activities by a leader it considers a fugitive could negatively impact ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties between the two nations.
Hasina, 78, is scheduled to address an event hosted by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia in New Delhi on August 5. This event marks the second anniversary of the student-led uprising in August 2024 that led to her overthrow and subsequent flight to India. Since her arrival in India, Bangladesh has consistently sought her extradition and, in 2025, she was sentenced to death for crimes against humanity related to the 2024 crackdown.
Dhaka's Diplomatic Concerns
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam articulated Bangladesh's position, emphasizing that Dhaka does not wish for this issue to damage its improving relationship with New Delhi. Islam stated that Bangladesh is committed to a forward-looking approach with India and expects clarity on India's position, especially as Hasina and other Awami League members reside in India.
Bangladesh has repeatedly communicated its concerns to India regarding political statements made by Hasina and other Awami League leaders from Indian territory. New Delhi had previously indicated its expectation that individuals granted refuge would not engage in political activities from its soil. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's foreign affairs adviser, Humaiun Kobir, further conveyed Dhaka's expectation to Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi that India would prevent members of the banned Awami League from using its territory to destabilize Bangladesh.
Hasina's Plans Amidst Controversy
Despite the multiple legal cases against her and Bangladesh's extradition requests, Sheikh Hasina has indicated her intention to return to Bangladesh in December. Her planned virtual address is expected to be her first public appearance since fleeing her country. The Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia confirmed Hasina's virtual participation alongside her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and other speakers, but has not yet responded to Bangladesh's diplomatic concerns.
The Indian foreign ministry has not yet issued an immediate response to Bangladesh's request for clarification. Dhaka hopes the matter will be handled in a manner that does not undermine the crucial bilateral relations between Bangladesh and India.