India on Wednesday confirmed that it has received a formal request from Bangladesh seeking the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was recently convicted and sentenced to death by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). New Delhi said the request is now being reviewed under existing judicial and internal legal procedures.
During the weekly media briefing, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised that India remains committed to supporting the peace, democracy, stability and inclusion of the Bangladeshi people—principles that guide India’s engagement with its neighbour.
Responding to a question on Dhaka’s extradition request, Jaiswal stated,
“Yes, we have received the request, and this request is being examined as part of ongoing judicial and internal legal processes. We remain committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including peace, democracy, inclusion, and stability in that country, and will continue to engage constructively in this regard with all stakeholders.”
Background of the Extradition Request
Bangladesh first approached India in December 2024 and renewed the request earlier this month, following Sheikh Hasina’s conviction. The ICT found her guilty of crimes against humanity linked to the widespread protests and unrest that took place in July 2024.
Alongside Hasina, the tribunal also convicted two of her key aides:
- Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, former Home Minister — sentenced to death
- Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, former Inspector General of Police — sentenced to five years in prison after turning state witness
Hasina Rejects Verdict, Calls Tribunal “Rigged”
Reacting strongly to the ruling, Sheikh Hasina denounced the tribunal’s judgement, calling it politically motivated and “rigged,” arguing that it was administered by the unelected interim government which, she said, lacks democratic legitimacy.
In her statement, Hasina alleged that the verdict reflected the “brazen and murderous intent” of extremist elements within the interim government, aimed at eliminating Bangladesh’s last elected Prime Minister and dismantling the Awami League as a political force.
She said,
“Millions of Bangladeshis toiling under the chaotic, violent, and socially regressive administration of Dr Mohammad Yunus will not be fooled by this attempt to short-change them of their democratic rights.”
Hasina further criticised the ICT proceedings, asserting that the tribunal was never designed to pursue justice or uncover the truth behind the events of July and August 2025.
“Their purpose was to scapegoat the Awami League and distract the world’s attention from the failings of Dr Yunus and his ministers,” she added.
What Happens Next?
India has not indicated a timeline for completing its review of the extradition request. Any decision is expected to follow a detailed legal examination, including India’s obligations under existing extradition frameworks, domestic law, and humanitarian considerations.
The situation continues to draw international scrutiny as Bangladesh navigates a turbulent political phase marked by legal battles, protests, and questions about democratic governance.