Bangladesh’s PM Tarique Rahman Postpones India Visit Amid Extradition Demands for Sheikh Hasina

In a significant diplomatic development, Bangladesh has announced that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will not be making a visit to India until the Indian government agrees to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This statement comes in the wake of rising tensions between the two neighboring countries, exacerbated by political turmoil in Bangladesh.

The strained relationship between Bangladesh and India has its roots in the widespread protests that erupted in Bangladesh in July 2024. These protests began as a response to a controversial quota system for government jobs but quickly transformed into a larger movement against Hasina’s administration. The protests culminated in Hasina’s ousting, prompting her to seek refuge in India.

Compounding the situation, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Hasina to death in November 2024 for alleged crimes against humanity tied to a brutal crackdown on demonstrators. Moreover, in February, she was handed a 10-year prison sentence in connection with two corruption cases regarding irregularities in a government housing project in Dhaka. In light of these legal troubles, the Bangladeshi government has escalated its demands for Hasina’s extradition.

Bangladesh officials have expressed concerns that Hasina is being allowed to maintain a public presence from Indian soil, having reportedly addressed her supporters from Delhi, which has aggravated diplomatic relations further. Meanwhile, Indian authorities have indicated that the decision regarding Hasina’s return is ultimately hers to make.

During a press briefing, AKM Shahidul Karim, an official from Bangladesh’s foreign ministry, addressed speculation surrounding a potential visit by Prime Minister Rahman to India, which was rumored to take place next week. He emphasized the need for a conducive atmosphere for such a diplomatic engagement, suggesting that without resolution on key issues, especially regarding Hasina’s status, any visit may be premature.

Source: scroll.in