Cost and Benefit

The issue of Bangladesh’s demand for the extradition of its Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has resurfaced, threatening to impact India-Bangladesh relations. A diplomatic note from Dhaka has called for Hasina’s extradition to face charges, including corruption and alleged human rights violations. This demand, coupled with India’s handling of Hasina’s political pronouncements, highlights the delicate balance required in managing bilateral ties, especially given the complex historical context.

Diplomatic Standoff over Extradition:

• Bangladesh’s Extradition Request: Bangladesh formally demanded the extradition of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India, citing corruption charges and accusations of crimes against humanity related to a police crackdown.
• India's Non-Escalatory Response: India's External Affairs Ministry refrained from outright rejecting the request, signaling a diplomatic approach to avoid escalating tensions between the two nations.
• Extradition Treaty in Focus: India and Bangladesh’s extradition treaty of 2013, amended in 2016, outlines procedures for such requests, but the current situation requires careful diplomatic negotiation to avoid straining relations.

The Historical Context and Strategic Considerations:

• Sheikh Hasina’s Historical Bond with India: India has long maintained a special relationship with Sheikh Hasina, due to her family's pivotal role in Bangladesh’s independence and the support India provided during her exile.
• India's Historical Precedent: India’s past decisions, such as offering refuge to the Dalai Lama, indicate a pattern of protecting political figures from neighboring countries, even under pressure, reinforcing its stance on Hasina’s protection.
• Domestic Implications for Bangladesh: The extradition demand appears more politically motivated, aimed at appeasing domestic political factions in Bangladesh, rather than a genuine legal pursuit.

The Need for Diplomatic Management:

• Potential Strain on Bilateral Relations: India must balance the extradition issue with the broader diplomatic and strategic ties it shares with Bangladesh, including trade, infrastructure, and energy cooperation.
• Hasina’s Political Activities in India: While India shelters Sheikh Hasina, her political activities from Indian soil could exacerbate tensions, and India must carefully assess the impact of her statements on bilateral relations.
• Diplomatic Path Forward: Both India and Bangladesh must focus on resolving this issue diplomatically, keeping it separate from the larger, more cooperative aspects of their bilateral relationship to prevent long-term damage.

Practice Question:

Q. Critically examine the implications of Bangladesh’s demand for the extradition of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on India-Bangladesh relations. How should India navigate this issue, considering the historical, legal, and diplomatic aspects involved?