Hasina’s extradition is a legal matter, says India

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has said the return of Bangladesh’s ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina from India will be resolved through the legal process. Any further steps will follow existing laws and regulations, it said.

Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal outlined the position at a regular press briefing in New Delhi on Tuesday (November 10).

He said anyone travelling needs valid travel documents. India had previously made its position on Hasina’s extradition clear, he said, adding that it was a legal matter and would be resolved under existing laws.

Several journalists at the briefing asked about Bangladesh’s diplomatic efforts to secure Hasina’s return. In each response, Jaiswal described the matter as a legal process and reiterated that India would act in accordance with the law.

Hasina resigned as prime minister and left Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, amid a student-led mass uprising. She then took refuge in India. The Bangladesh government has asked India to extradite her.