Bangladesh says PM will not visit India until Hasina extradited

Bangladesh has declared that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will not be making a trip to India until the Indian authorities extradite Sheikh Hasina, the former Bangladeshi premier who fled the country during a 2024 uprising. The two nations have experienced a tense relationship ever since anti-government protests led to Hasina's government falling and her escape to neighboring India, where she is currently residing.

Hasina is currently facing the death penalty in Bangladesh after being found guilty of crimes against humanity, and Dhaka has persistently sought her extradition. Foreign ministry spokesperson A.K.M. Shahidul Karim dismissed reports of a potential visit by Rahman to India next week, stating that a suitable atmosphere needs to be established for such a visit.

He urged Indian authorities to speed up their efforts to extradite Hasina and other fugitives. India has acknowledged that Bangladesh's extradition request is under review. Rahman assumed office in February and has since visited Malaysia and China, deviating from the customary practice of Bangladeshi leaders visiting India first on their overseas tour.

The Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, met with Rahman last week, sparking speculation of a possible resolution. According to Karim, diplomatic exchanges between officials from Bangladesh and India have been ongoing in recent weeks regarding Rahman's possible visit. However, the process has been hindered by Hasina's continued public appearances and media engagements, despite her status as a convicted criminal in crimes against humanity.

Hasina, a former pro-democracy advocate whose rule became increasingly authoritarian during her 15-year tenure, declared earlier this month that she would return to Bangladesh in December, even if it meant serving a prison sentence. Karim also emphasized the government's commitment to a "Bangladesh First" foreign policy centered on sovereignty and non-interference while aiming for mutually advantageous relations with India and other countries.