Bangladesh Rejects Sheikh Hasina's Request for Travel Documents

The Bangladeshi government rejected a request from former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a new passport and national identity card. Hasina, who has lived in exile in India since being ousted in August 2024, submitted the request through the London-based law firm Matrix Chambers. She appealed to the Bangladeshi diplomatic mission in New Delhi to expedite the documents, stating her intention to return in December to surrender before a court.

Junior Minister for Foreign Affairs Humaiun Kobir swiftly dismissed the application, labeling Hasina a "terrorist" and a "fugitive criminal." The government continues to demand her extradition from India, citing an active treaty between the two nations, though India has so far declined to hand her over. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed noted that the foreign and law ministries are currently reviewing the legal basis of her application.

Hasina was sentenced to death in 2025 by a special tribunal for crimes against humanity following a deadly crackdown on protesters during the mass uprising that ended her tenure.