Sat Nov 22 09:30:00 UTC 2025: Former Bangladesh PM Sentenced to Death, Sparks Protests and Diplomatic Tensions
New Delhi, India – A Dhaka tribunal has sentenced former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for crimes against humanity related to a deadly crackdown on protesters last year. The verdict has been met with both celebration by some in Bangladesh and diplomatic friction between Bangladesh and India, where Hasina currently resides in exile.
Shima Akhter, a student in Dhaka, expressed vindication, recalling the deaths of friends during the crackdown. However, she emphasized that the sentence is insufficient, demanding Hasina’s extradition and execution in Bangladesh.
Hasina fled to New Delhi in August 2024 as protests against her government intensified. Bangladesh has repeatedly requested her extradition, but India has so far refused. This refusal has become a major point of contention between the two nations.
While India seeks a strong relationship with Bangladesh, analysts believe extraditing Hasina is unlikely. Some view the charges as politically motivated by the current government, which has been critical of India. Furthermore, an extradition treaty exception exists for offenses deemed “of a political character”.
The current Bangladeshi government, led by interim leader Muhammad Yunus, has strengthened ties with Pakistan and increased pressure on India to return Hasina. Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry has called India’s continued refusal to extradite Hasina an “unfriendly act.”
The situation has significantly strained relations between India and Bangladesh, a stark contrast to the close alliance forged under Hasina’s leadership. Some analysts suggest India is caught between honoring its loyalty to a long-time ally and accepting the widespread resentment against Hasina in Bangladesh.
Despite the strained relationship India is hoping for better relations through the upcoming February elections. They are hoping to work with an elected government and repair ties.
Even if India and Bangladesh are no longer allies, they need to “have civility towards each other”, Datta said.
Despite the current tensions, trade between India and Bangladesh has continued to grow.
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