Bangladesh sets tough riders for PM Tarique's visit to India

DHAKA/DELHI: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's government has set stringent conditions for a possible visit to India, following mounting domestic pressure from hardliners and opposition Jamaat-e-Islami ally NCP. The conditions include expediently addressing the extradition of Sheikh Hasina and other criminal fugitives, as well as fostering a favorable environment for the visit.

These demands are viewed by many in diplomatic circles as yielding to opposition calls to set tough conditions that are unlikely to be immediately feasible for India. The Bangladesh government has emphasized that the invitation to Tarique for both BRICS and the bilateral visit remains open; however, it now effectively rules out a bilateral visit this week.

Indian government sources confirm that the invitation stands, but Dhaka's timing of the visit is at its discretion. The extradition request is being examined by Indian authorities in accordance with domestic laws and procedures. Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, AKM Shahidul Karim, stated that officials from both nations have been in contact regarding the visit possibility, underscoring the need to create a conducive atmosphere.

The extradition issue has strained relations, and the government faces domestic challenges, including an energy crisis, which could stall relations until at least December.