India now faces a choice that will define its credibility as a regional power committed to justice and the rule of law. With Sheikh Hasina convicted of crimes against humanity by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal, New Delhi should honor its obligations under the 2013 extradition treaty and return her to Dhaka without hesitation.
Hasina is not a political refugee. She is a convicted defendant who fled the country during the July 2024 uprising and now faces a lawful sentence handed down after a transparent judicial process. Bangladesh has followed every required legal step: issuing warrants, preparing Interpol notices, and formally requesting her repatriation. India, as a long-standing partner, should respond in good faith.
Granting shelter to a convicted individual, especially one found guilty of ordering lethal force against unarmed civilians, undermines India’s own stated principles of democracy and accountability. It sends a message that political ties can outweigh justice, and that the suffering of victims is secondary to old alliances.
India’s reputation as a responsible regional leader is at stake. Returning Hasina would show respect for the rule of law, strengthen trust between neighbors, and ensure that justice for the July 2024 victims is not delayed any longer.