In a dramatic development that could shift the political and diplomatic landscape of South Asia, Bangladesh’s interim government, led by Chief Adviser Mohammad Yunus, has demanded the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from neighboring India. The move comes following months of violent protests, regime change, and rising tensions between the two neighboring countries. Yunus, a Nobel Peace Prize-winning economist, was appointed to lead the caretaker government after Hasina’s ouster in August, and he has since been at the forefront of efforts to stabilize the country and restore democracy.
The political crisis in Bangladesh began with widespread protests that started in July 2024, when students led a movement against what they perceived as a flawed job quota system that disproportionately benefited members of Sheikh Hasina’s ruling Awami League party. Despite the Supreme Court striking down the quota system, the protests grew in size and intensity, ultimately morphing into a broader uprising that criticized Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic leadership style and alleged human rights abuses by her administration. The protests culminated in violent clashes between demonstrators and security forces, leading to the deaths of over 1,000 people.
In the face of escalating violence and pressure from the military, Sheikh Hasina resigned on August 5, 2024. This triggered the formation of an interim government, headed by Yunus, which was tasked with overseeing a peaceful transition to a new democratic government. Since her departure, Hasina has sought refuge in India, where she remains as the Bangladesh government pushes forward with its plans for a transitional period.
Addressing the nation in a public speech on November 17, Yunus marked his first 100 days in office by revealing his administration’s intention to seek Hasina’s extradition from India.........