Bangladesh’s interim government has formally requested Interpol to issue a Red Notice for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, seeking her arrest and extradition from India to face charges of crimes against humanity. The move follows Hasina’s ousting in August amid mass protests and her subsequent flight to India.
The International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka issued arrest warrants on 17 October for Hasina and 45 others, including her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy and several former cabinet members. They are accused of orchestrating a violent crackdown on student-led protests in July and August, which resulted in at least 753 deaths and thousands of injuries. The protests, initially sparked by opposition to a quota system for government jobs, escalated into widespread demands for Hasina’s resignation.
Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam confirmed that a letter was sent to the Inspector General of Police, requesting Interpol’s assistance in locating and provisionally arresting Hasina. Law Affairs Adviser Asif Nazrul stated that a Red Notice would be issued soon, emphasizing the government’s commitment to bringing back those accused, regardless of their current location.
Hasina, who led Bangladesh for 15 years, has been residing in a secure location in New Delhi since her departure. India, a longstanding ally during her tenure, now faces diplomatic challenges as it considers Bangladesh’s extradition request. While there is no formal extradition treaty between the two countries, the issuance of a Red Notice could complicate Hasina’s status and strain bilateral relations.
The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has reconstituted the ICT to address allegations of human rights violations during Hasina’s administration. Over 60 complaints have been filed against her and members of the Awami League, citing enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and suppression of dissent. The tribunal has set a deadline of 18 November for Hasina to appear in court.
International observers, including the United Nations, have called for thorough investigations into the violence during the protests. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk urged accountability for all parties involved, highlighting the need for transparency and justice in the wake of the unrest.
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