India has refrained from commenting on the request made by former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, for a passport from the Bangladesh high commission in New Delhi. The external affairs ministry stated that any travel plans would necessitate a “travel document.” This statement was made during a regular media briefing on Tuesday, where spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal was questioned about Hasina’s situation.

Jaiswal emphasised that inquiries regarding Hasina’s passport should be directed to the Bangladesh high commission, suggesting that they would be in a better position to address the matter. This indicates India’s stance of not intervening in the diplomatic issues surrounding Hasina’s request, which has implications for her planned return to Bangladesh next month.

Background on Sheikh Hasina’s Exile

Sheikh Hasina has been residing in India since August 2024, following the overthrow of her government during a student-led uprising. Her request for a passport and a national identity card was submitted to the Bangladesh mission in New Delhi on Monday, as she prepares for her anticipated return to Bangladesh in December. The urgency of her request is underscored by the fact that her passport was revoked by Bangladeshi authorities after she fled, and her political party, the Awami League, has faced a ban.

The deputy foreign minister of Bangladesh, Humaiun Kobir, quickly dismissed Hasina’s request, reiterating the government’s demand for her extradition. This highlights the ongoing tensions between Hasina and the current Bangladeshi administration, which has been critical of her presence in India. The situation remains complex, as Hasina’s return could potentially lead to significant political ramifications.

During the media briefing, Jaiswal reiterated India’s position regarding the extradition request, stating that it is a legal matter that would be addressed accordingly. He also mentioned that a travel document is essential for the movement of individuals, indicating the procedural complexities involved in Hasina’s potential extradition.

Legal and Political Implications

Sheikh Hasina was sentenced to death by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal in 2025 for crimes against humanity, stemming from her alleged role in a crackdown on protests that resulted in numerous casualties. Hasina has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has challenged the legitimacy of the tribunal’s verdict. This legal backdrop adds a layer of urgency to her request for a passport, as it could influence the conditions of her return to Bangladesh.

In recent interviews, Hasina has expressed her determination to return home despite the risks of arrest. Her presence in India has become a point of contention between the Indian government and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) administration in Dhaka. Bangladeshi officials have reportedly urged India not to permit her to express political views from Indian territory, reflecting the delicate nature of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The developments surrounding Sheikh Hasina’s passport request and her planned return to Bangladesh are closely monitored by both Indian and Bangladeshi authorities. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for regional stability and bilateral relations. As the deadline for her return approaches, the responses from both governments will be pivotal in shaping the future of this high-profile political issue.

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