What if Sheikh Hasina declares an interim government in exile?
So finally the cat is out of the bag. The Islamist radicals led by Yunus heading the Bangladesh’s interim but highly illegal government (as Sheikh Hasina had never resigned but ousted forcibly) has “officially requested” the extradition of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, where she has been living in exile since August 5, 2024.
This was communicated through a diplomatic note sent to the Indian government, as confirmed by Touhid Hossain, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser.
He stated that the note emphasizes the need for Hasina’s return to Dhaka for judicial proceedings related to serious allegations against her and several former officials, including “crimes against humanity and genocide” as determined by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina, who led the Awami League party and served as prime minister for over two decades, was forced to leave Bangladesh amid escalating stage managed protests by radicals that culminated in her ousting earlier this year.
The protests were largely driven by a well knit group of radicals who fanned widespread discontent with her government’s handling of political dissent and allegations of “electoral fraud.”
Following her departure, arrest warrants were issued against her and other high-ranking officials from her administration and her Party the Awami League.
On paper the extradition process may be backed by an existing treaty between Bangladesh and India. However this can take place only if meets all the laid down parameters.
Firstly there should be a valid legal Government in Dhaka who apparently is presently not there. Yunus and his men don’t constitute a legal authority as Hasina never resigned. Secondly there has to be more than 100% guarantee on safety and life of Hasina.
Thirdly Yunus has to give a written guarantee that he will not permit any kind of anti India activities on Bangladesh soil. Also he must guarantee full safety of all Hindu and Christain minorities citizens of Bangladesh.
Yunus’s Home Advisor Jahangir Alam indicated that efforts are underway to formalize this request with India’s External Affairs Ministry.
However, it remains quite certain India will not respond to this diplomatic note, given the nature of the situation and its potential implications.
In fact Sheikh Hasina may declare her intentions to set a Government in Exile.
