Bangladesh Considers Extradition of Sheikh Hasina, Citing Potential Embarrassment for India

Bangladesh is considering the extradition of former PM Sheikh Hasina from India as she faces multiple legal cases. The country's de-facto foreign minister suggests her continued stay in India creates an "embarrassing situation." The decision could impact Bangladesh-India relations as the political crisis in Bangladesh continues to unfold.

Bangladesh's de-facto foreign minister Mohammad Touhid Hossain has announced that the country will soon decide on the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India. Hasina, who fled to India earlier this month amid violent protests, is facing mounting legal cases in Bangladesh.

In an interview with Reuters, Hossain stated that while he didn't want to speculate, Hasina was facing "so many cases." He added that the final decision on pursuing extradition lies with Bangladesh's home and law minister.

Hossain suggested that Hasina's continued stay in New Delhi while exploring options for political asylum creates an "embarrassing situation" for India. He expressed confidence that India would "take care of it," without elaborating further.

The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Mohammed Yunus, is considering its options as Hasina faces two murder cases in Bangladesh. A third case, involving allegations of murder, torture, and genocide during the recent protests, has also been launched against her and nine others.

The political crisis in Bangladesh has resulted in over 300 deaths, with protesters targeting Awami League leaders and monuments. Several of Hasina's former ministers and advisers have already been arrested.

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Hasina, in her only statement since her ouster, has called for an investigation into the killings and vandalism during the protests. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed, has stated that Hasina would not be returning to Bangladesh's political arena.

As Bangladesh weighs its options, the potential extradition of Sheikh Hasina remains a sensitive issue that could impact diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and India.