Dhaka:Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Dinesh Trivedi, emphasized that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was not transported to India by the Indian Air Force or Army. He stated that the legal proceedings concerning Bangladesh's request for her extradition are ongoing and no specific timeline can be provided due to the involvement of the courts.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Trivedi made these remarks during a panel discussion at the Bay of Bengal Conversation in Dhaka. The discussion, titled "Power and Prudence Managing Great Power Competition without Conflict," addressed various strategic issues.
Trivedi recounted the circumstances under which Hasina left Bangladesh for India in August 2024, describing them as "tragic" and unexpected for Indian authorities. He stressed that India, as a neighboring country, had to respond to her arrival while she was still the Prime Minister of Bangladesh.
The envoy noted that refusing Hasina entry was not a viable option for India, highlighting the country's duty to act responsibly despite unforeseen situations. He reiterated that the legal process in India is active and functioning within the framework of its democratic and judicial systems.
Additionally, Bangladesh has persistently requested Hasina's extradition since her stay in India began in August 2024. This issue was also discussed by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman during his meeting with Trivedi in Dhaka. India's Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that Bangladesh's request is being examined according to established procedures.
The panel discussion also explored methods for managing strategic rivalry amid geopolitical uncertainties. Participants included Maj Gen (Retd) ANM Muniruzzaman, former Army Commander Arun Kumar Sahni, Professor Carol Christine Fair, and Mustafa Osman Turan. The session was moderated by Faris Hadrovic, Managing Director of Cnsltng-Bsnss-Dvlpmnt, Bosnia and Herzegovina.