Bangladesh demands Sheikh Hasina’s extradition for massacre charges as death toll rises

World News: In a bold move, Bangladesh's interim government, led by Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus, has announced plans to seek the extradition of exiled former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India. Yunus, who has been in office since August, addressed the nation on his first 100 days, revealing that the regime intends to hold accountable those responsible for the hundreds of deaths during the violent student-led protests earlier this year.

Sheikh Hasina’s Flight to India

Sheikh Hasina, once hailed as a symbol of leadership in Bangladesh, fled to India on August 5 after intense protests erupted across the nation. The demonstrations, triggered by widespread dissatisfaction with her administration, quickly turned deadly. In his address, Yunus made it clear that the new government holds Hasina and others responsible for the fatalities during the protests, which saw brutal crackdowns on students demanding political reform.

“We will seek the return of the fallen autocrat Sheikh Hasina from India. I have already discussed the issue with Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Karim Khan,” Yunus declared. His statement signals the government's intent to pursue legal action, including bringing the former prime minister to trial for her alleged role in the violent suppression of protests.

Interpol Involvement and Red Notice Request

On November 12, a special tribunal in Bangladesh took a significant step by asking Interpol to issue a red corner notice for Hasina’s arrest. This international alert aims to assist law enforcement agencies worldwide in locating and detaining suspects wanted by national authorities. Prosecutor B.M. Sultan Mahmud confirmed that they had already approached Interpol through the Bangladesh Police Chief, requesting their help in apprehending Hasina and others linked to the deadly crackdown.

Despite India being a member of Interpol, the red corner notice does not legally obligate New Delhi to surrender Hasina. However, her legal troubles have intensified, as she has been summoned to appear in a Dhaka court on November 18 to face charges of "massacres, killings, and crimes against humanity."

Continued Violence and Rising Death Toll

The fallout from Hasina’s government’s collapse has been catastrophic, with more than 1,000 people reported dead since the protests began in July. The unrest, fueled by mass protests against the administration, led to widespread violence that has left deep scars across the nation.

As the country grapples with the aftermath, the interim government’s push for accountability seems poised to escalate tensions even further. The Bangladesh government's pursuit of Hasina's extradition and trial for crimes against humanity reflects a turbulent political climate and a demand for justice from the people.