The possibility of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina returning to her country in December remains uncertain, despite reports of ongoing diplomatic discussions between New Delhi and Dhaka. Hasina has been living in exile in India for more than two years following her ouster in August 2024.
According to a BBC Bangla report published on November 12, India has reportedly set two key conditions before facilitating her return to Bangladesh.
India’s Two Conditions for Hasina’s Return
According to the report, India wants the Bangladesh Army to take responsibility for Hasina’s safe return and security, just as it had facilitated her departure to India on August 5, 2024.
Secondly, New Delhi reportedly wants Dhaka to guarantee a fresh and fair trial for Hasina under international scrutiny, including an opportunity to appeal against the death sentence awarded to her in connection with the July 2024 crackdown.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal declined to comment on the matter on Friday. The Bangladesh government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has also not issued an official response.
Hasina Applies for New Passport
Meanwhile, Bangladesh Prime Minister’s Assistant Press Secretary KM Nazmul Haque claimed in a Facebook post that several countries, including the UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, the US, Finland and Qatar, were unwilling to offer Hasina asylum.
He suggested that returning to Bangladesh might be her last available option.
On November 9, Hasina reportedly applied for a new passport and travel documents, marking her first official communication with the Bangladesh government since going into exile.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue
According to the BBC report, India has been holding behind-the-scenes discussions with Dhaka over Hasina’s safe return. The involvement of Bangladesh’s military establishment is believed to be crucial.
However, despite India’s diplomatic efforts, her return in December appears unlikely. Indian officials reportedly believe that although Dhaka publicly demands her extradition, the Bangladesh government may not be genuinely interested in bringing her back amid the country’s ongoing political challenges.