The Indian government has informed a parliamentary committee that deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina is not permitted to engage in political activities while residing in India.
This clarification follows recent comments from Hasina that she may return to Bangladesh by the end of 2026, reports the Indian Express.
On Thursday, however, Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman said Hasina would likely face immediate arrest upon her return.
Meanwhile, India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed to the panel that Dhaka’s request for her extradition is currently being reviewed by “competent authorities” in line with established legal procedures.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs, chaired by Congress MP Shashi Tharoor, observed that India’s decision to host Hasina is grounded in its “civilisational ethos” and humanitarian tradition of providing sanctuary to those facing “existential threat”.
However, the committee emphasised that India maintains a strict policy against allowing its territory to be used for political actions directed at other sovereign nations.
In its report titled “Future of India-Bangladesh Relationship,” the panel recommended that the government continue its “principled and humanitarian approach” while managing the situation with appropriate sensitivity.
Beyond the status of Hasina, the committee urged an early normalisation of visa processing for Bangladeshi citizens.
It expressed concern that lower visa volumes negatively impact public perception and bilateral relations. India resumed tourist visa services on 28 June this year, following a two-year suspension that began in July 2024 due to regional instability.
The panel also called for the urgent commencement of talks regarding the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty, which is set to expire this year.
The committee suggested that discussions should be informed by modern hydrological data and climate projections, involving consultations with the state governments of Bihar and West Bengal.
Additionally, the committee recommended that the MEA prioritise the safety of minorities in Bangladesh as a fundamental part of its diplomatic efforts. Hasina is currently facing new charges of crimes against humanity in a tribunal concerning a 2013 crackdown.
