India denies political activity for ex-PM Hasina on its soil
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- India has stated that former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is not allowed to engage in political activities in India.
- New Delhi maintains its policy of not permitting its territory to be used for political activities against other nations.
- Hasina's stay in India is based on humanitarian considerations, while Bangladesh's extradition request is under legal review.
India has reaffirmed its commitment to a long-standing policy of prohibiting political activities directed against other countries on its soil, specifically in the case of Bangladesh's ousted prime minister, Sheikh Hasina. The Indian government's stance was detailed in its response to a report by the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs. The committee, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, reviewed India-Bangladesh relations and sought updates on various recommendations.
India has consistently upheld the principle of not allowing its territory to be used for anti-other-country political actions. This policy has been applied to Hasina's situation, despite her ongoing virtual discussions with party leaders, statements issued in her name, and media interviews from India. The government stated that Hasina's continued stay is permitted under extraordinary humanitarian circumstances and India's civilizational values, providing refuge to individuals facing an imminent threat to life.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee recommended that India continue to balance humanitarian concerns with international obligations, legal commitments, and diplomatic sensitivities. Regarding Bangladesh's request for Hasina's extradition, the Indian government indicated it is under review by competent authorities and is being processed according to the applicable legal framework. No final decision has been made, particularly following an in absentia death sentence pronounced against Hasina. As of July 31, 2026, New Delhi has not announced any new policy on the extradition request, with diplomatic observers suggesting the parliamentary report formalizes existing positions rather than signaling a shift.
Originally published by Daily Star in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.