Bangladesh Receives No Official Response from India on Hasina’s Extradition Request: Mohammad Yunus
Dhaka: Bangladesh’s Chief Advisor, Mohammad Yunus, has stated that formal letters were sent to India requesting the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, but no official response has been received. According to Yunus, Hasina is accused of crimes against humanity and must face trial.
In an interview with a UK news channel, Yunus mentioned that Dhaka had officially reached out to New Delhi regarding Hasina’s extradition. However, despite the diplomatic communication, India has yet to respond. The state news agency BSS reported that Yunus reiterated the necessity for Hasina to be held accountable for her alleged crimes.
Hasina Fled to India Amid Political Turmoil
Sheikh Hasina fled to India on August 5 last year following large-scale student-led protests that resulted in the downfall of the Awami League’s 16-year rule. Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has since issued arrest warrants against her, along with several former ministers, advisers, and both military and civilian officials, for alleged crimes against humanity.
No Response from New Delhi
Yunus emphasized that not only Hasina but also her close associates and family members would face legal action. He confirmed that Bangladesh had issued two arrest warrants against her and had sent formal letters to India. However, there has been no official response from New Delhi.
Last year, India acknowledged receiving diplomatic communication from the Bangladesh High Commission but refrained from making any comments on the matter. Despite this, Yunus insisted that Hasina must stand trial, regardless of whether she is physically present in Bangladesh or not.
Allegations Against Hasina
Hasina is accused of using security forces and police to abduct, torture, and kill hundreds of activists. However, she denies these charges, claiming that they are politically motivated.
UN Estimates 1,400 Deaths in Anti-Hasina Protests
The former Prime Minister, along with the army and police, is alleged to have taken violent measures against protesters in July and August. According to UN estimates, around 1,400 people were killed in the days leading up to Hasina’s escape to India.
Mohammad Yunus assumed the role of Chief Advisor on August 8. He previously stated that approximately 1,500 people, including students and workers, lost their lives during protests against Hasina’s government, while nearly 19,931 others were injured.
