India-Bangladesh tensions have flared up again over a strong protest lodged by the Bangladesh government against a press conference by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi. Dhaka called the event “outrageous” and accused India of allowing its territory to be used for political activities by a leader convicted in absentia and wanted in Bangladesh.

On Wednesday, Hasina, who has been living in India since fleeing Bangladesh after the 2024 political uprising, addressed the media from New Delhi. Despite being sentenced to death, she said during the interaction that she plans to go back to Bangladesh in December.

She also called for the release of political prisoners, the lifting of the ban on the Awami League, and criticized the current government, saying the country was moving away from democracy and stability.

Dhaka Lodges Strong Protest

Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry issued a strongly worded statement expressing its deep upset at the permission granted to Sheikh Hasina to address a public press conference from Indian soil.

The government said her comments could jeopardise Bangladesh’s democratic transition and harm peace and stability in the country. It also reiterated its demand for the extradition of Hasina under the bilateral agreement between the two countries.

India Stands Firm on Earlier Position

There is no change in India’s policy towards Sheikh Hasina yet. New Delhi has consistently stated that any extradition request for her would be considered only as a legal matter.

The Ministry of External Affairs has said its position on the issue remains unchanged.

Hasina Says She Will Return

Hasina told reporters she intended to return to Bangladesh in December despite the legal action against her. She claimed the cases against her were politically motivated and accused the current administration of stifling democratic values.

Her comments have also stoked the political fire between her supporters and the current Dhaka government.

New Strains in India-Bangladesh Relations

The latest controversy has added yet another layer of tension to already strained India-Bangladesh relations.

Dhaka has requested the extradition of Sheikh Hasina several times. New Delhi, however, has been handling the issue as a legal matter.

The diplomatic exchange reflects the increasing sensitivity surrounding Hasina’s extended stay in India and its impact on bilateral relations.