Sheikh Hasina says she plans to return to Bangladesh in December, reports ‘Reuters’

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced during a recent interview with Reuters that she and senior members of her Awami League party intend to return to Bangladesh from India in December. She stated that despite facing potential risks, including arrest or even death, she would return to her homeland. This marks a definitive step toward her long-awaited return following years in exile. Hasina, who ruled Bangladesh for more than two decades, left the country in August 2024 after a wave of student-led protests erupted into a nationwide movement demanding political change. The unrest culminated in the ousting of her government, prompting her to flee to India for safety. Since then, she has resided in Delhi, where the Indian government granted her asylum. Her departure significantly impacted Indo-Bangla relations, as Bangladesh sought her return through diplomatic channels. In November 2025, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal issued a death sentence against Hasina in absentia, citing her alleged involvement in the violent suppression of the 2024 protests. She has consistently denied these accusations, maintaining that the charges were politically motivated. Despite this, the ruling has intensified pressure on her to return to face justice. According to reports, the tribunal also imposed additional prison terms for corruption-related offenses, though these remain under review. Hasina’s decision to return to Bangladesh comes as the country transitions leadership. After the fall of her government, Bangladesh underwent a series of political shifts. Initially, an interim administration led by economist Muhammad Yunus took control, followed by the election of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Under his leadership, the government has continued to pursue legal action against former officials, including Hasina. During her recent conversation with Reuters, Hasina emphasized the personal significance of returning to her native land. She spoke of wanting to meet her fate on home soil, where her family is buried and where historical struggles unfolded. “If death comes, I want it to come on my own soil,” she said, underscoring the emotional weight behind her decision. The Bangladesh government has repeatedly requested India’s assistance in facilitating Hasina’s extradition. Diplomatic correspondence between the two nations has highlighted the urgency of the situation, with Dhaka expressing concern over the former leader’s ability to communicate with supporters from abroad. Meanwhile, India has maintained a measured stance, stating that it is reviewing the extradition request while engaging in constructive dialogue with Bangladesh. Indian officials have made it clear that Hasina retains the final say regarding her return. In December, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar affirmed that it was up to Hasina to determine whether she wished to return to Bangladesh. This position reflects India’s broader policy of respecting the autonomy of individuals in such matters, even as it navigates complex geopolitical dynamics. As the December deadline approaches, attention will focus on how both countries manage the unfolding situation. With Hasina preparing to return, the stage is set for a dramatic chapter in Bangladesh’s political history, one that could reshape the nation’s future. Whether the outcome will bring closure or further tension remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Hasina’s journey is far from over.