Bangladesh seeks India’s clarification over Hasina speech

Bangladesh has asked India to clarify its position over a planned virtual address by former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, saying political activities by a

DHAKA: Bangladesh has asked India to clarify its position over a planned virtual address by former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, saying political activities by a fugitive could undermine efforts to improve relations between the two neighboring countries.

The request comes ahead of an event scheduled for August 5 in New Delhi, where Hasina is expected to deliver a video address alongside her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, during a programme organized by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia.

Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam said Dhaka is committed to strengthening ties with India but believes New Delhi should clearly explain its stance regarding political activities by individuals wanted by Bangladeshi authorities.

She said Bangladesh has repeatedly expressed concerns over Hasina and other leaders of the Awami League making political statements while residing in India. According to the minister, Dhaka does not want such activities to negatively affect the progress made in bilateral relations.

The minister noted that the event is not being organized by the Indian government but added that Bangladesh is prepared to raise the matter through diplomatic channels if required.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs had not issued an official response to the remarks at the time of reporting.

Relations between Bangladesh and India have remained under strain since Hasina left Bangladesh in August 2024 following a student-led uprising that ended her tenure in office. Although both countries have recently indicated a willingness to rebuild diplomatic engagement, the issue of Hasina’s stay in India continues to be a sensitive matter.

Bangladesh has formally requested Hasina’s extradition to face legal proceedings. In 2025, she was sentenced to death in absentia over crimes against humanity linked to the 2024 crackdown on anti-government protests. Hasina has rejected the verdict, describing it as politically motivated and without legal validity.

Despite the legal cases against her, Hasina has said she intends to return to Bangladesh in the future, while her planned virtual appearance has once again brought the issue of her presence in India into the diplomatic spotlight.