Sheikh Hasina Makes First Move Towards Return to Bangladesh

News Desk

Dhaka: Ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently living in self-imposed exile in India, has formally requested the issuance of a new passport and national identity card from Bangladeshi authorities, signalling a possible move towards her return to the country.

According to the British news agency Reuters, the request marks Hasina’s first formal communication with Bangladesh’s new government since she fled the country in August 2024 following widespread anti-government protests.

Lawyers representing Hasina from the London-based Matrix Chambers have written to Priti Rahman, Acting High Commissioner of Bangladesh in New Delhi, seeking the immediate issuance of new identity and travel documents for their client.

The lawyers stated that Hasina’s previous passport and national identity card had reportedly been cancelled by the interim government and relevant authorities. They argued that, as a Bangladeshi citizen, she remains entitled to these documents under national law and international human rights treaties.

The letter urged the Bangladeshi authorities to process her application without delay. However, neither the Bangladeshi High Commission in New Delhi nor officials in Dhaka have issued an immediate formal response.

The development comes amid speculation over Hasina’s possible return to Bangladesh in December, a move that could further intensify the country’s existing political and legal tensions.

Meanwhile, the Awami League, once Bangladesh’s largest political party and led by Hasina, has been banned following the end of her government. Several of its senior leaders and former ministers are either in prison or living in self-imposed exile in India and other countries.

Hasina, who served as Bangladesh’s prime minister for approximately 20 years across multiple terms, was forced from power amid the political upheaval of August 2024.

Her potential return comes at a critical time as the government in Dhaka continues efforts to restore political stability following a prolonged period of unrest.

Analysts believe her return could deepen political polarisation within Bangladesh. However, it could also create an opportunity to address strained relations between New Delhi and Dhaka, which have deteriorated since India provided refuge to the former prime minister.