Mon Dec 23 15:53:21 UTC 2024: ## Bangladesh Demands Extradition of Ex-Prime Minister from India

**DHAKA** – The Bangladesh government has formally requested India’s extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to New Delhi in August following violent protests that ended her 15-year rule. The request, delivered via a note verbale, cites an ongoing “judicial process” requiring Hasina’s return, according to acting foreign ministry head Touhid Hossain.

While Hossain did not detail the specific charges, Hasina faces numerous accusations, including crimes against humanity, genocide, murder, and embezzlement related to the Rooppur nuclear power plant. The International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka has issued arrest warrants, and Interpol has been contacted. Dozens of Hasina’s allies have already been arrested and charged with involvement in a police crackdown that resulted in over 750 deaths during the August protests.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed receipt of the request but offered no immediate comment. The extradition request comes two weeks after a visit from India’s foreign secretary aimed at mending strained relations between the two nations. The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has publicly called for Hasina’s return, expressing further frustration over her criticism of the current administration from Indian soil. A separate investigation into allegations of $5 billion in embezzlement related to the Rooppur nuclear power plant, involving Hasina and her family, has also been launched by Bangladesh’s anti-corruption commission. Hasina denies all charges.

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