‘Process Vitiated...’: Bangladesh Links Tarique Rahman’s India Visit To Sheikh Hasina Extradition

Bangladesh has linked the proposed India visit of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman to its demand for the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Bangladesh Foreign Ministry spokesperson Shahidul Karim said officials from Dhaka and New Delhi had been discussing Rahman’s possible bilateral visit for several weeks. However, he said the process was affected by Hasina’s August 5 press interaction in New Delhi. Dhaka said a “propitious environment” must be created for Rahman’s visit and urged India to act on its extradition requests. Bangladesh is seeking the extradition of Hasina and other fugitives, as well as the handover of those accused in the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, under the bilateral extradition treaty. Dhaka said it is awaiting India’s response while reiterating its “Bangladesh First” policy based on sovereign equality, non-interference and mutual benefit.