Sheikh Hasina Plans Return to Bangladesh Amid Controversy

In a significant political development, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, announced her intention to return to Bangladesh in December. Currently in exile in India, she faces a death sentence in Bangladesh following a crackdown on protesters in 2024.

Speaking via audio at an event in New Delhi, Hasina expressed her commitment to return despite the conviction. She emphasized her responsibility to her people, indicating her resolve despite potential imprisonment or worse. Her comments came during the second anniversary of the uprising that led to her government’s fall.

Bangladesh’s reaction to her announcement was swift and critical. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement denouncing her public engagement in India as detrimental to the country’s sovereignty and an insult to those who died in the so-called July Revolution. The ministry highlighted concerns over the timing of Hasina’s interaction on Indian soil.

Hasina fled to India in 2024 after student protests ousted her from power. In 2025, a court in Bangladesh sentenced her to death, holding her responsible for the deaths of nearly 1,400 people during the protests. While Hasina denies any wrongdoing, Bangladesh has made continuous attempts to secure her extradition, which India has refused.

During her speech, she also urged the lifting of the ban on her Awami League party and the release of political prisoners. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman of Bangladesh inaugurated a new museum in Dhaka dedicated to the 2024 uprising. This museum, housed in Hasina’s former official residence, features exhibits documenting the uprising, including personal items from those killed and media clippings from the era. It also highlights allegations of repression under Hasina’s 15-year governance.

Rahman, who assumed office after an election under Nobel Peace Prize laureate Muhammad Yunus’ interim administration, was joined by Yunus at the museum’s opening. His ascent to power came with the Awami League barred from elections.