No decision yet on Bangladesh PM's visit to India, Dhaka says

New Delhi and Dhaka are awaiting a decision on Prime Minister Tarique Rahman's upcoming visit to India, according to his press secretary. Indian media had previously reported that Rahman would be in New Delhi from August 23-25, marking his first visit to the country since assuming office in February. This trip comes as Bangladesh seeks to mend ties with India, as strained relations have developed following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2024.

Hasina sought refuge in India after student-led protests dismantled her long-standing rule, and she has been residing in exile there. Dhaka has urged New Delhi to extradite her, a request India has stated it is currently evaluating. Rahman's press secretary, A A M Saleh, confirmed to Reuters that "no decision has yet been made on the visit," as Dhaka awaits India's response on the extradition of Hasina and other fugitives.

Meanwhile, India's foreign ministry spokesman, Randhir Jaiswal, declined to comment on the matter. Despite six months of governance, Rahman's administration has expressed the need for a more conducive diplomatic climate for the trip, following Hasina's recent appearance at a press conference, which was met with condemnation from Dhaka.

Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia in November for her role in suppressing student protests, a claim she has rejected as politically motivated. She has indicated that she will return to Bangladesh in December.