India has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting its long-time ally, Sheikh Hasina, amidst rising political uncertainties in Bangladesh. According to a report by The Economic Times, India will not abandon Sheikh Hasina, considering the broader geopolitical implications of such a decision. High-level sources indicate that India is carefully reviewing Bangladesh’s request for Hasina’s extradition but is unlikely to act hastily.
The report emphasizes India’s strategic considerations, highlighting that any unfavorable move against Hasina could send the wrong signal to other regional allies. Despite pressure from Bangladesh’s interim government, India’s decision-making process is expected to take several months as it cautiously weighs the potential consequences.
The Economic Times notes that Sheikh Hasina has been instrumental in advancing India’s regional interests. She has taken significant steps to curb extremism, enhance sub-regional cooperation, and safeguard India’s security concerns. These contributions solidify her position as a key partner for India in South Asia.
Under the 2011 India-Bangladesh extradition treaty, requests of a “political nature” are unlikely to be processed. Analysts believe that Hasina’s return to Bangladesh under the current political climate could place her in a precarious and volatile situation.
India’s long-standing tradition of providing refuge to political figures, such as the Dalai Lama, further reinforces its cautious approach. This is not the first time Sheikh Hasina has sought refuge in India; following her father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s assassination in 1975, she lived in exile in India for several years.
Political observers suggest that Hasina’s presence in India could serve as a morale booster for the Awami League, which is regrouping to reassert its influence. Her continued stay in India is likely to be seen as symbolic support, reinforcing New Delhi’s stance on preserving regional stability and maintaining strong bilateral ties with Bangladesh.