Living in India on a residence permit since her government’s abrupt end last year, former Bangladesh Premier Sheikh Hasina’s legal status is secured by this official document. This arrangement provides her with protection for an extended period. Bangladesh has formally requested her extradition after she received a death sentence from its International Crimes Tribunal for her role in suppressing student uprisings. India has received this request but has not committed to a timeline for Hasina’s departure, allowing her stay to continue indefinitely in New Delhi. Hasina’s departure from Bangladesh followed the collapse of her government amidst intense, university-driven protests that significantly disrupted normal life. The mounting pressure led to her unavoidable resignation and subsequent flight to India with her sister, entering the country via Agartala. India’s reaction to the tribunal’s sentencing was cautious, with official statements highlighting New Delhi’s concern for the welfare of the Bangladeshi people and its commitment to regional stability. The Ministry of External Affairs has indicated that India will continue to engage with all parties involved. Despite a formal extradition request lodged in December and another following the verdict, India has yet to advance any action on these requests, maintaining a consistent, unhurried approach. The cancellation of Hasina’s diplomatic passport in December had no bearing on her current legal standing in India. An extension of her visa in January, under technical grounds, now functions as a distinct residence permit. She is housed in a protected government residence in New Delhi, under tight security, and has been informed she can remain as long as she chooses. Legal interpretations suggest her situation aligns with political asylum, though India maintains a diplomatic stance without using the term. The Indian government’s decision on the extradition request is the sole pending factor determining the future of her stay.
