Sheikh Hasina Death Sentence: Verdict, India’s Position, Extradition Law & What Happens Next
1. Introduction Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death by a Dhaka tribunal for alleged “crimes against humanity” during the 2024 student uprising. While the verdict has brought relief to families of victims who died due to police brutality, it raises significant political, diplomatic, and legal questions—especially because Hasina is currently in exile in India. The sentencing has triggered an extradition demand by the interim Bangladeshi government and a measured diplomatic response from New Delhi. This article analyses the verdict, India’s legal obligations, relevant statutes, constitutional provisions, judicial precedents, and the possible next steps. 2. The Verdict Against Sheikh Hasina 2.1 Charges and Findings The tribunal court, presided over by Judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder, held Sheikh Hasina guilty on three major counts: Incitement of violence Issuing orders leading to killings Failure to prevent atrocities committed under her g...