A report presented in the Indian Parliament stated that the Indian government is reviewing Dhaka’s request for the extradition of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. It was also mentioned that despite her presence in India, she has not been given any opportunity to conduct political activities.
Indian media outlet The Times of India reported that this information was highlighted in a report on government actions taken based on the recommendations of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, presented on Thursday (July 30).
Prepared based on the recommendations of the Committee’s ninth report titled ‘The Future of India-Bangladesh Relations’, this report was presented in the Lok Sabha on Thursday.
The report stated that relevant authorities are reviewing Bangladesh’s request for Sheikh Hasina’s extradition in accordance with applicable laws and established procedures.
It further noted that the Bangladesh government formally requested her return after a death sentence was pronounced against her in absentia. It was also recommended that the government regularly inform the Standing Committee about the progress of the matter.
The report stated that Sheikh Hasina’s presence in India is consistent with the country’s humanitarian traditions and long-standing policy of providing asylum. It was mentioned in the report that she is residing in India as part of the policy to offer refuge to individuals facing grave crises or existential threats.
Furthermore, the Indian government has clarified that Sheikh Hasina has not been provided with any political platform or opportunity to conduct any political activities using Indian territory.
According to the Standing Committee, India’s long-standing policy is that its territory will not be allowed to be used for political activities against any neighbouring or other country. Therefore, the government has been advised to manage the issue while upholding its humanitarian stance and considering international obligations and diplomatic sensitivities.
It is worth noting that Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh for India in August 2024 following a student-people’s uprising and has been residing there ever since.