India extends ex-Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina’s visa amid extradition call
India has extended the visa of ousted Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina amid extradition calls, while authorities denied claims of her being granted asylum.
India has extended the visa of ousted Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina amid growing calls for extradition. A second arrest warrant was issued earlier this week over allegations of enforced disappearances, and Dhaka has also revoked the passport of the former PM.
According to a Hindustan Times report, the Home Ministry was required to sign off on the visa extension through the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office. Authorities however dismissed claims that the former leader had been granted ‘asylum’ in the country. Sources also reminded that India did not have a specific law for dealing with refugees and matters such as asylum.
Sheikh Hasina had fled to India in early August after a massive student-led protest toppled her regime of 16 years. She currently faces several court cases related to fatalities during her rule — including accusations of crimes against humanity. India's decision on the extradition request will depend on various factors, including legal obligations, diplomatic relations, and humanitarian concerns.
The International Criminal Tribunal in Bangladesh issued its first arrest warrant against the ex-premier on October 17 on charges of genocide and crimes against humanity committed during the July-August protests and uprising. A second warrant was issued more recently on Monday, accusing Hasina of playing a role in the ‘enforced disappearance’ of several hundred people. The Inspector General of Police was ordered to arrest the former PM and produce her before the tribunal on February 12.
"Over the past 15 years, a culture of fear was established in Bangladesh through enforced disappearances and crossfires. Thousands of people were abducted by various forces, either in plainclothes or in uniform. Most of them never returned,” ICT Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam told journalists.
At least 60 cases or complaints of enforced disappearances, killings, genocide, and crimes against humanity were lodged at the ICT after the Awami League government fell. The accusations named Hasina, leaders of her party and its allies as well as and senior officials of different law enforcement agencies.
(With inputs from agencies)
Catch all the Business News , Breaking News Events and Latest News Updates on Live Mint. Download The Mint News App to get Daily Market Updates.
MoreLess
First Published:8 Jan 2025, 02:21 PM IST
- Top Gainers
- Top Losers
- 52 Week High