Since her government’s fall last year, former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been living in India, her presence legally sanctioned by a residence permit. This document provides essential long-term security for her stay in New Delhi. The backdrop to this situation is Bangladesh’s demand for her extradition, issued after an International Crimes Tribunal sentenced her to death for allegedly quashing student protests. India has received this request and is processing it, meaning Hasina’s stay has no fixed conclusion date. Her move to India was a direct consequence of her government’s rapid collapse, driven by large-scale student protests that shut down offices and disrupted state functions. The intense pressure led to her resignation and immediate departure for India with her sister, entering via Agartala. India’s official response to the tribunal’s verdict was carefully worded, focusing on its commitment to regional peace, democracy, and stability, rather than commenting directly on the extradition. The Ministry of External Affairs indicated that New Delhi would maintain communication with all stakeholders, reflecting a diplomatic approach. India has not acted on formal extradition requests submitted in December and again following the tribunal’s sentencing, demonstrating a deliberate and unhurried handling of the matter. Hasina’s diplomatic passport was cancelled in December, but this did not alter her legal status in India. A technical visa extension in January now functions as a distinct residence permit. She is residing in a protected government residence in New Delhi, enjoying significant security and an assurance that she can stay for an indefinite period. While not officially labeled political asylum, her situation is analogous, with India employing diplomatic channels and utilizing its extradition treaty, which permits the refusal of requests related to political offenses or capital punishment. Her continued residence in Delhi is currently dependent on India’s decision concerning the extradition request.
