Dhaka: The Bangladesh government has sent a new written request to India asking for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been living in India since she left the country in August 2024 during mass protests. Officials in Dhaka confirmed that a formal diplomatic note was issued to New Delhi, urging India to hand her over to face legal action.

The request follows the recent verdict of Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal, which sentenced Hasina to death in absentia on charges of crimes against humanity. The verdict came earlier this month and immediately drew international attention and criticism from human rights groups questioning the fairness of trials held without the accused present.

Bangladesh authorities say India has a responsibility under existing diplomatic agreements to return Hasina. According to officials, earlier requests were also made in December 2024 and again after the tribunal announced its decision. The latest note repeats Dhaka’s position that she is now a fugitive from justice.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has acknowledged receiving the message but has not given any indication of its next step. The issue places India in a difficult position, as Hasina was a long time ally of New Delhi and played a key role in strengthening ties between the two countries.

The fresh request comes at a sensitive time in Bangladesh’s political climate and could create new tensions between the neighboring nations. Analysts say India will likely weigh legal, diplomatic and political considerations before responding.

More developments are expected as both sides continue quiet discussions on the matter.