India defies Bangladesh, extends Sheikh Hasina’s visa
MNP – India has extended the visa of Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina – who fled her country last year amid political turmoil – even as Dhaka’s interim government continues to push for her extradition.
Sheikh Hasina – who left Dhaka on August 5, 2024 – following violent student-led protests that left over 500 dead, has been residing in New Delhi under tight security.
While her stay has led to speculation regarding asylum, Indian authorities have categorically denied such claims.
“This is purely a technical extension to facilitate her stay,” an Indian government source said, emphasizing that the country does not have specific laws for granting asylum.
Hasina’s visa extension coincides with a formal extradition request submitted by Bangladesh’s interim government, headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, on December 23. The government alleges that Hasina was involved in incidents of violence and enforced disappearances during the 2024 protests.
