Bangladesh sets Sheikh Hasina's extradition as condition for PM Tarique Rahman’s India visit

Bangladesh has set former premier Sheikh Hasina's extradition as a prerequisite for Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's visit to India, according to the foreign ministry in Dhaka. The ministry spokesperson, AKM Shahidul Karim, stated that a suitable atmosphere must be created for the visit to proceed. Karim urged India to extradite other fugitive criminals, including leaders of Hasina's Awami League party currently residing in India, as well as those accused of killing political leader Sharif Osman Hadi.

These arrests took place in West Bengal earlier this year. The demand comes amid reports of India and Bangladesh exploring a bilateral visit by Rahman later in the month as part of efforts to mend the relationship after nearly two years of strained relations. Karim mentioned that Bangladesh and India have been in contact for several weeks regarding Rahman's potential visit.

However, he downplayed reports of Rahman's certainty to travel to India this month, citing the presence of Hasina in India, who has been convicted by the International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity. Bangladesh is awaiting India's response to their requests. Indian officials have acknowledged examining Bangladesh's request for Hasina's extradition while stating that investigations into Hadi's alleged killers are ongoing.

Despite distancing itself from Hasina's news conference, Bangladesh expressed discontent at the event being organized on Indian soil, given her status as a fugitive. The two nations are currently discussing a possible visit by Rahman before the end of the month, as he is expected to skip the upcoming Brics Summit in India. A visit from Rahman would offer an opportunity to address critical issues such as trade restrictions, transit, connectivity, border management, visas, and water-sharing.