Bangladesh's interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has formally requested India to extradite ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
However, this request encounters several challenges, primarily the provisions of the bilateral extradition treaty between the two nations.
India is unlikely to act hastily, given the complex geopolitical ramifications and Hasina’s status as a long-standing ally, reports the Economic Times citing sources familiar with the matter.
Under the India-Bangladesh extradition treaty, requests deemed "political in nature" are unenforceable, presenting a significant legal barrier.
The ET report said Dhaka is employing considerable diplomatic pressure to secure Hasina's return.
However, acceding to such demands could alienate India’s allies within the region and beyond, further complicating the matter.
During her tenure as prime minister, Hasina played a pivotal role in safeguarding Indian interests, cracking down on radical elements, and fostering sub-regional cooperation, added the ET report.
Given these considerations, Indian authorities are expected to scrutinise the extradition request thoroughly—a process that could take months, it further said.
Observers note that false charges may be levelled against Hasina should she return to Bangladesh under the current regime, raising concerns about her safety and the integrity of judicial proceedings.
Political analysts believe her presence in India could bolster the morale of the Awami League, which is strategising its political resurgence.
This is not Hasina’s first exile in India; she previously sought refuge following the assassination of her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in 1975.
India, known for its tradition of providing sanctuary—most notably to the Dalai Lama—remains cautious about jeopardising its image and longstanding partnerships in the neighbourhood.
As Bangladesh navigates this politically charged episode, all eyes remain on New Delhi's diplomatic manoeuvres and its adherence to treaty commitments.
