Bangladesh sets condition for PM's visit to India

Bangladesh said on Sunday that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman would not visit India until New Delhi extradites Sheikh Hasina, the former Bangladeshi premier who fled during a 2024 uprising. The statement, made by foreign ministry official A.K.M. Shahidul Karim, underscores the deep strain in bilateral ties since Hasina's ouster.

Speaking to reporters, Karim played down media speculation about a possible trip by Rahman to India next week. "We are of the view that a propitious environment needs to be created for the visit," he said. "To this end, we have urged the Indian authorities to expedite their efforts to extradite Sheikh Hasina and other fugitives." India has said Bangladesh's extradition request is "under examination."

Background of strained ties

The countries have had a strained relationship since deadly anti-government protests brought down Hasina's government and prompted her to escape to neighbouring India, where she remains. Hasina faces the death penalty in Bangladesh after being convicted of crimes against humanity, and Dhaka has repeatedly requested her extradition.

Rahman took office in February and has since visited Malaysia and China, departing from the tradition of Bangladeshi leaders heading to India for their first overseas trip. India's High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, met Rahman last week, fuelling speculation over a possible breakthrough. Officials from Bangladesh and India have been in contact in recent weeks about the possibility of a visit by Rahman, Karim said.

Hasina's media interactions and vow to return

Karim said the process has been vitiated by Hasina's open media interactions, despite her being a convict in crimes against humanity. Hasina, a former pro-democracy leader whom critics said grew increasingly autocratic during her 15-year rule, vowed this month that she would return to Bangladesh in December even if it meant imprisonment.

'Bangladesh First' foreign policy

Karim also said the government would pursue a "Bangladesh First" foreign policy rooted in sovereignty and non-interference while seeking mutually beneficial ties with India and other countries.

Perspectives

  • Bangladesh government: The visit cannot proceed until India extradites Sheikh Hasina, and the process has been hindered by her media interactions. The government will prioritise national interests in its foreign policy.
  • Indian government: India has said the extradition request is "under examination," and officials have been in contact with Bangladesh about a possible visit. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has emphasised de-risking and diversification as strategies for navigating global tensions, though he did not directly address the Bangladesh standoff in the reported remarks.