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Sheikh Hasina Visa: The Government of India has extended the visa period of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This decision has been taken amid demands for his extradition by the interim government of Bangladesh. It is noteworthy that Sheikh Hasina’s passport has been canceled by the interim government of Bangladesh. Hasina has been accused of violence and human rights violations during the 2024 protests.
Growing demand for extradition
The interim government of Bangladesh has formally requested India to extradite Sheikh Hasina through a diplomatic note.
- Allegations: His alleged role in the 2024 protests that have resulted in the deaths of more than 500 people, enforced disappearances, and killings.
- Passport Cancelled:
- Apart from Hasina, passports of 96 other people have also been cancelled.
- They are accused of violating human rights during the protests.
The interim government of Bangladesh has demanded Hasina’s return to settle these charges through judicial process.
Sheikh Hasina’s status in India
Sheikh Hasina has been living in India since August 2024.
- India’s stance:
- According to sources, Sheikh Hasina has not been granted asylum in India, but it is only a matter of visa extension.
- No specific law relating to asylum has been implemented in India.
- The Government of India has clarified that visa extension should not be seen as a step to grant asylum.
Bangladesh government action
- Second arrest warrant:
Bangladesh court has issued a second arrest warrant against Sheikh Hasina.- First Warrant: A warrant has already been issued for crimes against humanity.
- Second warrant: Issued for his alleged role in the case of enforced disappearances.
- Spokesperson’s statement:
Tauheed Hussain, foreign affairs advisor to the interim government, said,
“We have requested the return of Sheikh Hasina to India for judicial purposes. “This request has been made through a formal diplomatic note.”
What are the allegations against Sheikh Hasina?
- Student protests of 2024:
- Sheikh Hasina has allegedly been held responsible for the kidnapping of over 500 people and several murders.
- Bangladeshi security personnel detained these people in secret hideouts.
- Human rights violations:
- Hasina has also been accused of crimes against humanity.
- Accusation of removal from power:
Hasina had to leave Bangladesh after violent student protests in August 2024.
Steps taken by interim government of Bangladesh
- The interim government of Bangladesh led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has made Sheikh Hasina’s extradition a priority issue.
- Grounds of allegations:
- Role in violence, forced disappearances, and killings during protests.
- Bangladeshi officials claim that Hasina should face these charges.
Sensitivity of the situation for India
The Indian government has to work carefully on the issue of Hasina’s visa extension.
- India-Bangladesh relations:
- India and Bangladesh have close diplomatic and economic relations.
- Any decision regarding Sheikh Hasina’s extradition can affect the relations between the two countries.
- India’s statement:
- India clarified its stand and said that this is not a matter of granting asylum, but of visa extension.