DHAKA (Web Desk) – Bangladesh has asked India to clarify its position regarding exiled former prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s planned virtual address from New Delhi, saying political activities by a fugitive could complicate the recent improvement in bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries.
The issue emerged after plans were announced for Sheikh Hasina to address an event through video link from New Delhi on August 5. The programme is being organized by the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia (FCCSA) to mark the second anniversary of the student-led movement that led to the collapse of her government in 2024.
Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed Islam, said Dhaka wants to continue strengthening relations with India but expects New Delhi to clearly explain its position regarding political activities by individuals facing legal proceedings in Bangladesh.
Speaking to reporters, the minister emphasized that Bangladesh values its relationship with India and does not wish to see recent diplomatic progress undermined by developments that could create political tensions.
She said Bangladesh had previously conveyed similar concerns to Indian authorities regarding political statements made by Sheikh Hasina and other senior Awami League leaders while residing in India.
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According to the minister, Bangladesh expects countries hosting individuals wanted by its judicial authorities to discourage political activities that could affect bilateral understanding.
She added that although the planned programme was not being organized by the Indian government, Dhaka reserved the right to raise the matter through diplomatic channels if necessary.
The planned address has attracted attention because Bangladesh continues to seek Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India after she left the country following the political unrest that removed her government from power.
Hasina has remained in India since August 2024 after departing Bangladesh amid weeks of demonstrations and political violence that resulted in a change of government.
Bangladesh has since initiated multiple legal proceedings against the former prime minister and formally requested her extradition through diplomatic channels.
Despite the cases against her, Hasina recently indicated in media interviews that she intends to return to Bangladesh in the future while continuing to reject the allegations brought against her.
Officials in Dhaka maintain that legal proceedings against the former premier are being conducted under the country’s judicial process, while Hasina has dismissed the cases and court decisions as politically motivated.
The Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia announced that Hasina would address its New Delhi event via video link alongside her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and other participants.
The organization has not publicly commented on concerns expressed by the Bangladesh government.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs has also not issued an official response regarding Bangladesh’s latest request for clarification.
Relations between Bangladesh and India experienced strain following the political developments of 2024, but officials from both countries have recently indicated a willingness to improve cooperation through continued diplomatic engagement.
Since the formation of Bangladesh’s new government, both sides have held discussions aimed at strengthening cooperation in trade, security, connectivity, border management and regional stability.
Political analysts believe the Sheikh Hasina issue remains one of the most sensitive subjects affecting bilateral relations, particularly because extradition requests remain unresolved.
Observers note that both governments appear interested in maintaining broader cooperation despite differences over the former Bangladeshi leader’s status.
Regional experts say continued diplomatic communication will be essential to prevent the issue from affecting collaboration on economic and security matters that remain important for both countries.
Bangladesh has repeatedly emphasized that it seeks constructive relations with India while expecting mutual respect for legal and judicial processes.
The latest diplomatic exchange highlights the continuing sensitivity surrounding Sheikh Hasina’s presence in India and the broader political developments that reshaped Bangladesh’s leadership following the 2024 protests.
Despite the disagreement over the planned virtual address, officials in both countries continue to express support for maintaining dialogue and preserving the longstanding relationship between the South Asian neighbors through diplomatic engagement and cooperation.
