Bangladesh’s former PM Hasina says return from exile ‘duty to people’

Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh's former Prime Minister, announced on Wednesday her intention to return to her country in December, even if it means facing imprisonment. Speaking from a press club in New Delhi, Hasina, 78, declared that "fear cannot decide" her duty to her people. Her announcement was met with outrage in Dhaka, where protesters burned her effigy and the government expressed deep distress over the situation.

The United Nations estimates up to 1,400 people were killed during the crackdown to eliminate Hasina's rule in August 2024. Bangladesh has formally requested her extradition, a request India is reportedly examining. Her return comes amid efforts to mend strained relations between the two South Asian nations, which have been frayed by her persistent presence as a divisive figure.

India's Foreign Ministry spokesman, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized that the government was not involved in Hasina's decision and did not endorse her views. However, Bangladesh's foreign ministry condemned the speech, stating it was deeply hurtful to their people's sentiment and detrimental to bilateral relations. Hasina, who has been in hiding in India, has repeatedly stated her desire to return by the end of the year, citing her people's calls.

She acknowledged the potential consequences, stating she could face arrest, imprisonment, or even death, but remained resolute in her decision to return. The Bangladeshi government pledged to ensure Hasina undergoes a fair legal process should she return. Rights groups have long criticized Hasina's previous administration for human rights abuses, including murder, suppression of opposition, rigged elections, and one-sided courts.