India on Monday reacted to the International Crimes Tribunal’s (ICT) decision sentencing deposed Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for alleged crimes against humanity. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that New Delhi “remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh,” stressing peace, democracy, inclusion, and stability.
India Notes the Verdict, Reiterates Support for Bangladesh’s People
In its official statement, the MEA said it had taken note of the ICT ruling.
“India has noted the verdict announced by the ‘International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh’ concerning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh… We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders,” the MEA said.
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Bangladesh Urges India to Extradite Hasina
Bangladesh’s interim government urged New Delhi to hand over Sheikh Hasina, calling it India’s “obligatory responsibility” under the existing Extradition Treaty.
The Bangladesh Foreign Ministry argued that providing shelter to individuals convicted of crimes against humanity would be “intolerant” and contrary to justice.
Hasina has been living in a safe house in New Delhi since fleeing Bangladesh after her ouster in 2024.
The ICT Verdict: Hasina Sentenced to Death
Earlier, the ICT sentenced Sheikh Hasina to death after finding her guilty on three charges related to ordering a violent crackdown on student protesters during the 2024 uprising that toppled her government.
The tribunal also delivered verdicts against former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. While Kamal also received the death penalty, Mamun was pardoned for cooperating with investigators.
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Hasina Strongly Rejects Verdict
Sheikh Hasina denounced the judgment, calling the tribunal “rigged” and the current administration “unelected.”
In a statement to a news channel, she said:
“I do not care. They are illegitimate, and the verdict was delivered by an illegitimate extremist regime… The people of Bangladesh have rejected this kangaroo-court judgement.”
