Dhaka sends fresh extradition request to Delhi for Hasina

Bangladesh’s interim government has dispatched a new formal letter to India seeking the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who was sentenced to death in absentia earlier this week for crimes against humanity.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain confirmed on Sunday that the letter was sent on Friday. Speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he said: “The letter was sent the day before yesterday.” 

His remarks were intended to dispel confusion surrounding the timing of the request.

On Monday, the International Crimes Tribunal delivered its verdict in a case linked to the violent suppression of the July 2024 student-led uprising that toppled Hasina’s government. 

Sheikh Hasina and her former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan were both sentenced to death. Former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun received a five-year prison term in the same case after turning approver.

Government sources say Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan have remained in India since fleeing Bangladesh following the uprising.

Immediately after Monday’s verdict, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a public statement formally requesting their extradition. 

Law Adviser Professor Asif Nazrul subsequently announced that a follow-up letter would be sent through diplomatic channels. 

Friday’s communication is understood to be that second, formal extradition request.

India has yet to respond publicly to either request. 

New Delhi and Dhaka do not have a bilateral extradition treaty, and India has historically been reluctant to extradite former allied leaders who have sought refuge on its soil.