DHAKA — Bangladesh has formally requested the Indian government to restrain deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from issuing political statements from Indian soil, cautioning that public addresses by the exiled leader could destabilize bilateral relations.
The request was raised during an official meeting in Dhaka between the newly appointed Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, and Humaiun Kobir, Foreign Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister of Bangladesh. The diplomatic meeting took place at the Prime Minister’s Office in Tejgaon, Dhaka.
According to a press statement released by the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry, the discussions covered key aspects of existing bilateral cooperation and issues of mutual concern. Both representatives reiterated their commitment to strengthening relations based on mutual respect, trust, and shared interests.
Concerns Over Potential August 5 Address
During the courtesy call, Bangladeshi officials highlighted reports circulating across social media platforms indicating that Sheikh Hasina might deliver a public address on August 5.
"The Foreign Affairs Adviser informed the High Commissioner that Bangladesh expects India's cooperation to ensure that no individual associated with banned organizations—including fugitive Sheikh Hasina—can use Indian territory to make political statements or engage in activities aimed at creating instability within Bangladesh," the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry stated.
Both sides emphasized the necessity of sustained dialogue and constructive diplomacy to resolve ongoing friction and find long-term solutions through mutual trust.
Extradition Requests and Legal Pressure
The latest diplomatic push comes amid ongoing legal proceedings in Dhaka following Hasina's flight to India on August 5, 2024, after massive student-led demonstrations ended her 15-year rule. Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal subsequently sentenced Hasina to death in absentia after convicting her of crimes against humanity over the crackdown on anti-government demonstrators.
Dhaka has repeatedly pressed New Delhi for her return. The interim administration in Bangladesh first formally requested Hasina's extradition in November 2025, reiterating the demand during Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman's visit to India in April 2026.
The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi previously confirmed that Bangladesh's extradition request remains "under examination" in accordance with statutory procedures and judicial processes.
Despite facing the prospect of arrest and severe legal penalties, Hasina recently announced her intention to voluntarily return to Bangladesh around December, alongside other exiled leaders of the Awami League.
