Extradition of Sheikh Hasina Could Pressure India, Says Bangladesh Advisor

Bangladesh's interim government's foreign affairs advisor, Mohammed Touhid Hossain, has hinted at possibly seeking the extradition of former Premier Sheikh Hasina, who faces numerous charges in Bangladesh. Such a move, however, could place the Indian government in an awkward position. The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, is focusing on bringing normalcy and addressing Rohingya refugee issues.

Mohammed Touhid Hossain, the foreign affairs advisor to Bangladesh's interim government, indicated that the country could consider seeking the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who faces numerous charges. Speaking to Reuters TV, Hossain clarified that a formal request could potentially create an 'embarrassing situation for the Indian government.'

Hossain explained that the plethora of cases against Hasina might prompt the Bangladesh Ministries of Home and Law to request her extradition from India. 'Her staying in Delhi creates questions, and any request for her return would impact Indo-Bangladesh relations,' he said. Hasina arrived in India on August 5 after a violent student-led uprising in Dhaka. Furthermore, she and 24 others face human rights violation charges lodged at the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague.

Bangladesh's interim government, under Muhammad Yunus, has also revoked the passports of Hasina, her advisors, and former cabinet members. Yunus reportedly conveyed his displeasure over statements from India through Hossain, emphasizing the need for transparent relations. On the humanitarian crisis of Rohingya refugees, Hossain stressed that Bangladesh has 'done its share' and called on other countries, particularly India, to step up their efforts. The interim government aims to chart a clearer election timeline by September amid ongoing efforts to restore normalcy.

(With inputs from agencies.)