Send Sheikh Hasina back: Bangladesh’s ‘red line’ for PM Rahman’s visit

Bangladesh's government is urging the Indian authorities to swiftly address their request for the extradition of Sheikh Hasina and other fugitive criminals, as well as to hand over the accused killers of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi, according to a statement released by the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry. This request has been a point of contention, with many in Bangladesh viewing it as a "red line" that cannot be compromised.

However, there is a recognition in New Delhi that they must respond appropriately to the request for extradition.

The extradition request was initially brought forth by the interim government led by Prof Muhammad Yunus in 2024, and has since been reasserted by the current BNP government which took office in February of this year. On August 21, Delhi had proposed a possible date for the visit of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India, but this was disrupted by a press conference held by ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5.

In her speech, Hasina announced her plans to return to Bangladesh in December of the same year, and even speculated that she might be killed. The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry firmly stated that they have made their position clear on this matter.

During the press conference, Hasina claimed that she was not endorsed by the Indian government, and reiterated that she would return to Bangladesh in December. The Indian government, in turn, stated that they had "no role" in Hasina's interaction with the media and did not endorse her views. The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry made it official that the two sides have been in discussions for several weeks regarding the possibility of a bilateral visit by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to India.

However, this process was significantly hindered by Hasina's press interaction on August 5, where she was convicted by the International Crimes Tribunal for committing crimes against humanity, and her Awami League party was banned. Despite several attempts to establish a dialogue, Hasina's media engagement created a rift between Bangladesh and India.

The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry reiterated that they will continue to pursue a "Bangladesh First" policy, promoting friendly bilateral relations with other countries, including their neighboring nation, based on sovereign equality, national dignity, non-interference in internal affairs, and mutual benefit.