B'desh completes legal process for Hasina return

Dhaka, Bangladesh has concluded all necessary legal steps to facilitate the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, according to Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman. The minister stated that Bangladesh has fulfilled its obligations under the bilateral treaty, and now India's actions will determine the next course. Asaduzzaman told reporters that Hasina will return through legal means, and her extradition under the treaty itself constitutes a legal process.

He also clarified that Hasina would not be granted an opportunity to appeal her death sentence under the relevant law. Hasina fled to India in August 2024 following protests that led to her government's downfall. Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal convicted her in November 2025 for crimes against humanity during the 2024 uprising, sentencing her to death and life imprisonment.

Hasina has consistently denied the charges. Despite Bangladesh's ongoing extradition requests, India has not announced a decision on the matter. Hasina, 79, had previously indicated her intention to return to Bangladesh in December, but her visit is now uncertain. The India-Bangladesh relationship has been strained by Hasina's media appearance in New Delhi, which the Bangladesh government criticized.

The two countries are currently scheduled for a consular dialogue next week, but it has been postponed.