India Reacts to Death Sentence for Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina; Dhaka Seeks Extradition

A Dhaka tribunal court, known as the ‘International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh,’ has sentenced former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for “crimes against humanity” related to student protests last year that led to her removal from office.

Sheikh Hasina was found guilty on three charges: incitement, order to kill, and inaction to prevent the atrocities, resulting in a death sentence. The former PM denied the accusations, calling the order a result of a "rigged tribunal established and presided over by an unelected government with no democratic mandate."

Former Interior Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also sentenced to death in absentia after being found guilty on four counts of “crimes against humanity.” Hasina fled Bangladesh after her ouster and is currently staying in a secret safe house in Delhi, India, according to her son, Sajeeb Wazed.

Bangladesh's foreign ministry officially requested that India extradite Sheikh Hasina, citing an existing extradition agreement and stating that it was an “obligatory responsibility” for New Delhi to ensure her return. The ministry labeled providing refuge to convicted individuals as a “highly unfriendly act and a disregard for justice.”

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement saying India has “noted the verdict” announced by the Tribunal. The MEA reiterated its commitment to the “best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country,” adding, “We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders to that end.”