Bangladesh Urges India to Clarify Position on Sheikh Hasina's Planned New Delhi Address
By Editorial Desk | Team Chatzyr
Bangladesh has urged India to clarify its position on former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's planned virtual address from New Delhi, warning that allowing political activities by the exiled leader could complicate efforts to rebuild bilateral relations between the two neighbouring countries.
The planned speech is scheduled for August 5, during an event organised by the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCCSA) to mark the second anniversary of the student-led uprising that ended Hasina's government. The development comes as Dhaka continues to seek her extradition from India, where she has lived since leaving Bangladesh in August 2024.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, Bangladesh's State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said her government was committed to strengthening ties with India but expected clarity on New Delhi's position.
"We are moving forward with India with a forward-looking approach. We don't want that progress to be affected," she said, adding that India should make its stance clear.
Islam said Bangladesh had repeatedly conveyed its concerns over Sheikh Hasina and other Awami League leaders making political statements while residing in India. She noted that although the August 5 event is not being organised by the Indian government, Dhaka could raise the matter through diplomatic channels if necessary.
According to the FCCSA, Hasina, 78, will address the gathering via video link alongside her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and other speakers.
The issue extends beyond a single speech. Bangladesh has formally requested Hasina's extradition following multiple legal cases against her. In 2025, she was sentenced to death in absentia by a Bangladeshi tribunal over crimes against humanity linked to the 2024 crackdown on anti-government protesters, during which the United Nations estimated that up to 1,400 people were killed. Hasina has rejected the verdict, describing it as legally invalid.
India's Ministry of External Affairs had not publicly responded to Bangladesh's request for clarification at the time of publication.
Relations between Dhaka and New Delhi have remained under strain since Hasina's removal from office. However, both governments have recently signalled a willingness to improve cooperation following the formation of Bangladesh's new government after the February elections.
While both countries have expressed interest in rebuilding diplomatic engagement, Sheikh Hasina's continued presence in India remains one of the most sensitive issues in Bangladesh-India relations. How New Delhi responds to Dhaka's latest concerns could influence the next phase of cooperation between the two neighbours.
Published on Chatzyr.net
Written By Editorial Desk | Team Chatzyr
Disclaimer: This report is based on official statements and publicly available information at the time of publication. Legal proceedings and diplomatic developments may evolve as further announcements are made.
