Bangladesh has urged India to extradite former prime minister Sheikh Hasina after a Dhaka tribunal sentenced her to death for “crimes against humanity.” Hasina fled to India on August 5 last year during a massive student uprising that ended her 15-year rule. The court also convicted former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who is believed to be in India.
Prosecutors said Hasina ordered heavy force, including helicopters and drones, to crush the protests. They also linked her to the shooting deaths of six demonstrators in Dhaka’s Chankharpul area. Chief prosecutor Tajul Islam said she acted as the central figure behind the violence.
Hasina rejected the charges. She said she tried to limit casualties and accused the tribunal of political bias. Her Awami League called for a nationwide shutdown to denounce the verdict. She cannot appeal unless she returns or is arrested within 30 days.
Bangladesh’s foreign ministry pressed India to hand her over under the 2013 extradition treaty. It warned that sheltering her would be seen as an unfriendly act. India noted the verdict but avoided any commitment. Officials said India remains focused on peace, stability, and democratic processes in Bangladesh. Legal experts believe New Delhi may reject the request, citing political motives and treaty safeguards.
