Bangladesh revokes diplomatic passports of Sheikh Hasina's MPs amidst extradition demands
Bangladesh crisis: In a significant development, Bangladesh's interim government has revoked all diplomatic passports earlier issued to Members of Parliament (MPs) during Sheikh Hasina's tenure. This decision, announced by the Home Department, also includes the revocation of the diplomatic passport belonging to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina herself.
Diplomatic passports, which provide holders with privileges like visa-free travel to certain countries, were granted to MPs under Sheikh Hasina's administration. The withdrawal of these passports is part of the interim government's broader efforts to reshape Bangladesh's diplomatic and political landscape ahead of the upcoming general elections.
Sheikh Hasina has been in India since August 5, seeking refuge due to escalating violence and threats to her life in Bangladesh. Despite spending over two weeks in India, her situation remains uncertain, as she continues to seek asylum in the UK or another European country, though no country has granted her clearance yet.
India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar confirmed in Parliament that Sheikh Hasina is currently in India and in need of assistance. However, her extended stay could lead to diplomatic challenges for India, especially as Bangladesh has started to push for her extradition. Despite this pressure, experts note that Bangladesh has not yet made a formal extradition request, and even if it does, India is not legally bound to comply.
Meanwhile, in Dhaka, BNP General Secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has called for Sheikh Hasina's extradition, insisting that she face trial in Bangladesh. He urged India to hand her over to the Bangladeshi government, claiming that the people of Bangladesh have called for her trial. Mirza Fakhrul also accused Hasina of plotting from India to undermine the ongoing revolution in Bangladesh.
- With inputs from agencies
