- New Delhi, December 24, 2024 In a significant diplomatic development, India has officially responded to Bangladesh’s recent ‘note verbale’ seeking the extradition of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The response, issued by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), clarifies India’s position on the matter, stating that “at this time, the request cannot be processed due to existing legal and procedural constraints.”
Bangladesh had submitted the ‘note verbale’ to India in early December, urging the Indian government to facilitate the extradition of Prime Minister Hasina in connection with alleged corruption and criminal activities linked to the 2018 elections. The note verbale, a formal diplomatic communication, marked the latest chapter in the ongoing tensions between the two South Asian neighbors over Hasina’s leadership and governance.
The MEA response, issued on Monday, noted that India and Bangladesh maintain strong bilateral relations, but reiterated that “extradition requests are subject to mutual treaties and legal frameworks.” The statement highlighted that while both countries have agreements for the extradition of criminals under certain conditions, the request concerning Hasina did not meet the established criteria.
In its response, India emphasized that the matter requires careful legal consideration, and that the process cannot be expedited without a thorough review of all relevant facts and adherence to national and international law. The statement further underlined that India’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Bangladesh remains unaffected, and that the two countries would continue their cooperation on a range of issues including security, trade, and regional stability.
Context Behind the Request
The request for Sheikh Hasina’s extradition follows accusations in Bangladesh that she had been involved in irregularities during the 2018 national elections, which were marred by allegations of voter suppression and widespread violence. Critics argue that her administration’s crackdown on opposition parties and political dissent has undermined the democratic process. Some of these critics, including opposition leaders in Bangladesh, have been vocal about their calls for Hasina to face charges.
However, the request has been widely seen as politically motivated, with many analysts suggesting that it is part of a broader strategy by opposition factions in Bangladesh to destabilize Hasina’s long-standing rule. Critics of the current Bangladeshi government argue that the extradition request serves as a convenient tool to challenge Hasina’s authority, but has little legal merit when examined through the lens of international law.
India’s Position
India has long maintained a delicate balancing act in its relations with Bangladesh, supporting the country’s development while carefully navigating domestic political sensitivities. The Indian government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has expressed solidarity with Hasina’s administration in the past, particularly during the 2015 Rohingya refugee crisis, when Bangladesh took in hundreds of thousands of refugees fleeing violence in Myanmar.
Experts argue that India’s response to the extradition request could signal its continued support for Hasina, despite challenges from both domestic and international critics. India has also been cautious in dealing with extradition requests involving high-ranking political figures, often citing the need for a clear legal basis for such actions.
While the extradition request may not result in any immediate legal action, it underscores the growing friction between the ruling Awami League party and its political opponents, as well as the complexities of international diplomacy in the region.
Looking Ahead
As both countries move forward, the diplomatic channels remain open, with discussions expected to continue on various fronts. Indian officials have reiterated the importance of maintaining a stable and constructive relationship with Bangladesh, which remains a critical partner for India in regional security and economic initiatives.
The response to Bangladesh’s ‘note verbale’ is expected to further shape the trajectory of India-Bangladesh relations in the coming months, as both nations navigate the challenges of geopolitics, domestic political dynamics, and regional cooperation.
The situation is being closely watched by observers, with a focus on whether Bangladesh will pursue further diplomatic avenues or seek alternative means to challenge the legal standing of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
