India is currently facing a challenging situation as it provides refuge to Sheikh Hasina, the deposed former Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Hasina is living with her family in a secure government bungalow in New Delhi, where she is considered a state guest. This arrangement comes amid serious threats to her life, prompting heavy security around her residence to keep journalists and the public away.
Hasina fled Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, following a student uprising that ended her 15-year rule. She is wanted back in her home country to face numerous corruption and criminal charges related to the deaths of hundreds of protesters during the unrest. The new interim government of Bangladesh, led by Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus, has expressed a strong desire to put Hasina on trial.
In December, Bangladesh’s foreign ministry formally requested Hasina’s extradition through a diplomatic note. India acknowledged receiving this request but has not commented further on the matter. The extradition treaty between India and Bangladesh allows for requests to be denied under certain conditions, which could play a role in India’s response.
India has traditionally maintained a close relationship with Hasina, supporting her during her long tenure. Many believe that New Delhi played a key role in her rise to power in 2007 and has overlooked issues like corruption and human rights violations during her rule. Critics argue that India has put all its support behind Hasina, neglecting to build relationships with other political parties, like the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party, which has been less favorable to India.
The ongoing political dynamics in Bangladesh complicate the situation. The interim government does not represent the full political landscape, and any decision regarding Hasina’s fate may be influenced by the establishment of a democratically elected government in the future.
As tensions rise, the safety of minority communities in Bangladesh, particularly Hindus, has also become a concern, especially during the recent protests. The Indian government has expressed worries about their security, given the historical context of violence against them.
This marks the second time Hasina has sought refuge in India. After a tragic incident in 1975, when her family members were killed, she lived in New Delhi for several years. Now, as she faces an uncertain future, India appears reluctant to hand her over to Bangladesh anytime soon.
As the political landscape evolves, the relationship between India and Bangladesh will likely be tested further. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Yunus are expected to meet at a regional summit in Thailand in early April, which could provide an opportunity to address these pressing issues.