India-Bangladesh Extradition Treaty: Why New Delhi May Not Be Obligated to Extradite Sheikh Hasina
Amid discussions surrounding the India-Bangladesh extradition treaty, experts highlight that New Delhi is not necessarily obligated to extradite Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina under its provisions. The treaty, designed to facilitate the return of fugitives between the two nations, includes a critical clause allowing refusal if the request is deemed not “in good faith in the interests of justice.”
Reports suggest that if accusations against Hasina are politically motivated or lack substantial evidence, India could invoke this clause to deny the extradition request. However, such a move could further strain bilateral relations between the neighboring countries, especially given the treaty’s importance in fostering cooperation on legal and security matters.
This development underscores the complexities of international treaties and their implications on diplomatic ties. For now, it remains unclear whether any formal request for Hasina’s extradition has been made, but the potential for political and legal challenges looms large.