Bangladesh Demands Extradition of Sheikh Hasina to Ease India Ties

The Government of Bangladesh has identified the extradition of fugitives and convicted persons currently in India, including former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Obaidul Quader, as a critical condition for improving bilateral relations. Prime Minister's Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman formally raised the demand during a meeting with the Indian High Commissioner, asserting that there will be no compromise on justice for crimes committed under the previous Awami rule.

This diplomatic tension coincides with a dispute over invitations extended to Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. State Minister for Foreign Affairs Humayun Kabir claimed Rahman was not invited to the 18th BRICS Summit in his capacity as prime minister, but only as the chair of the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

The Ministry of External Affairs of India countered these claims, clarifying that Rahman received two distinct invitations: one for a bilateral visit extended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February, and another to attend the BRICS Summit as the BIMSTEC chair. The friction occurs as Bangladesh increases engagement with China and Pakistan while facing ongoing disputes with India over water-sharing and the presence of political fugitives.