New Delhi: The International Criminal Tribunal of Bangladesh has issued a warrant against former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina. An arrest warrant has been issued against former PM Sheikh Hasina and 45 other people on charges of crimes against humanity during the violent student movement in Bangladesh. Hasina has to appear before the tribunal by November 18. In such a situation, the big question now is about India’s reaction. It remains to be seen what next step India takes in this matter. Hasina is currently taking refuge in India.
What will India do now?
Sheikh Hasina left Bangladesh on 5 August. She has been living under refuge in India since then. Meanwhile, the interim government of Bangladesh has demanded the extradition of Hasina. Many cases are already going on against Hasina in Bangladesh. Meanwhile, now the arrest warrant against Hasina may technically create a possibility of her extradition from India by the country’s interim government. The tribunal has said that Interpol’s help will be taken to bring back the fugitives including Hasina.
What do the rules say?
India and Bangladesh already have an agreement regarding extradition. Under this extradition agreement between the two countries in 2013, the Indian government can send Hasina back. But despite Bangladesh’s demand, India has not done so till now. But the question is that if the International Criminal Tribunal or the Government of Bangladesh demands the extradition of Sheikh Hasina, will India be able to reject her appeal?
India also has the option of extradition
Even if there is an extradition treaty between the two countries. But there was an amendment to this agreement in 2016. According to this amendment, no evidence is required for extradition. If a court of a country has issued a warrant of arrest, extradition cannot be refused. However, Article 6 of the treaty states that extradition can be refused if the crime is of a political nature. Apart from this, extradition can also be refused in cases of military crimes. In such a situation, India can refuse extradition of Hasina by terming her crime as political in nature.
Bangladesh court issued warrant against 45 people
Let us tell you that the International Criminal Tribunal of Bangladesh on Thursday issued arrest warrant against former PM Sheikh Hasina and 45 other people including top leaders of Awami League for alleged crimes against humanity during the massive student movement. According to local media, the tribunal has directed authorities to produce Hasina and others before it by November 18. Bangladesh can approach India on this issue. Dhaka has previously indicated that this remains an option.
More than 200 cases registered against Hasina
The prosecution had filed two petitions in the tribunal in this regard and appealed for issuance of arrest warrant. So far, more than 60 complaints of enforced disappearances, murders and mass killings have been filed with the tribunal against Hasina, her Awami League party and other leaders of the 14-party alliance, journalists and former top officials of law enforcement agencies. Hasina faces nearly 200 cases, most of which relate to killings during mass student protests.