India Extends Sheikh Hasina’s Visa Amid Diplomatic Tensions Over Extradition Request

GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 8th Jan. India has extended the visa of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, hours after Bangladesh’s interim government revoked her passport, citing alleged involvement in the July unrest and enforced disappearance of protestors. Reports from Indian diplomatic sources suggest the visa extension was granted in response to the political turmoil in Dhaka.

Two days ago, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) issued an arrest warrant for Hasina, demanding her extradition from India and appearance before the tribunal by February 12. The interim government also formally requested India to extradite Hasina, a move perceived in New Delhi as a pressure tactic.

Major General Fazlur Rahman, chairman of Bangladesh’s National Independent Commission of Inquiry, indicated the commission’s willingness to travel to India to interrogate Hasina if extradition is denied.

Indian officials, however, view the extradition request as a complex legal matter. Diplomatic sources in Delhi explained that the process requires examining legal formalities, which could take months. The Ministry of External Affairs approved the visa extension, carried out through the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office, citing these complications.

Despite extending her visa, India is unlikely to grant Hasina official political asylum due to the absence of specific laws in this regard. Diplomatic sources clarified that Dhaka’s request, submitted as a “note verbale,” lacks the necessary formalities, adding to the delay in responding to Bangladesh’s demand.

While India has assured it will respond to Bangladesh’s extradition request “in due time,” the move to extend Hasina’s visa underscores New Delhi’s cautious approach amid escalating tensions with its eastern neighbor.