India denies involvement in ex-Bangladesh PM Hasina’s planned speech

Bangladesh has formally requested India to clarify its position regarding exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's upcoming virtual speech from New Delhi, expressing apprehension that hosting a political activity by a fugitive could damage the improving bilateral relations. This comes in response to Hasina's planned appearance at the August 5 event organized by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia in New Delhi, commemorating the second anniversary of the student-led uprising that ousted her government.

The issue arises as Bangladesh persists in its efforts to extradite Hasina, who has been residing in India since fleeing the country in August 2024 following a death sentence for crimes against humanity over the 2024 crackdown. Despite having multiple cases against her, Hasina recently stated to Reuters that she intends to return to Bangladesh in December.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam conveyed Bangladesh's stance to reporters on Monday, emphasizing the need for India to be clear about its position. The FCCSA confirmed that Hasina, 78, will deliver her address via video link alongside her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and other speakers. However, the club has not yet responded to inquiries regarding Bangladesh's concerns.

Islam highlighted that Bangladesh has previously cautioned India against allowing fugitive accused individuals to make political statements from its territory. She reiterated that India had previously expressed that it did not anticipate fugitives to engage in political activities from its soil. Though the event was not organized by the Indian government, Islam indicated that Dhaka would raise the matter through diplomatic channels if required.

An immediate response from the Indian foreign ministry was not available. Tensions between the neighboring nations have been heightened since Hasina's ousting, although both parties have recently shown a readiness to mend ties through increased engagement and cooperation since Tarique Rahman's government assumed power following the February elections.

Hasina has been residing in India since her government's ousting following weeks of violent protests. Bangladesh has been pursuing her extradition, leading to her 2025 death sentence for crimes against humanity during the 2024 crackdown, which the United Nations estimated caused up to 1,400 deaths. Hasina has dismissed the verdict as legally invalid.