The recent conviction of Bangladesh's former Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for crimes against humanity has introduced a significant strain on the traditionally cooperative relationship between India and Bangladesh. The verdict, delivered on November 17, 2025, sentenced Hasina to death in absentia for her role in the deadly crackdown on student-led protests in July and August 2024. These protests, triggered by grievances over a quota system for public sector jobs, escalated into widespread demonstrations against Hasina's 15-year rule, which was marred by allegations of corruption and human rights abuses.
The ICT found Hasina guilty of inciting violence and ordering the use of lethal force, including drones and helicopters, against unarmed protestors. The prosecution presented evidence including surveillance footage, drone logs, and leaked government communications. Hasina, who has been in exile in India since August 2024, has denounced the tribunal as a "politically motivated charade".
India's response to the verdict has been cautious. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that India has "noted the verdict" and remains "committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country". However, New Delhi has so far ignored Bangladesh's formal request for Hasina's extradition, a move that has become a major point of contention between the two nations.
This refusal to extradite Hasina is rooted in several factors. First, there's a perception in India that the charges against Hasina are politically motivated. Some analysts believe that handing her over would be seen as legitimizing the current interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, which is viewed by some in India as being composed of "anti-India forces". Second, India has historically maintained close ties with Hasina's Awami League, and there are concerns that abandoning her would damage long-term strategic interests.
The situation is further complicated by the upcoming general election in Bangladesh, scheduled for February. Hasina's Awami League has been barred from contesting, and many other major political forces are critical of India. Some analysts suggest that India may find it easier to work with an elected administration, regardless of its political leanings.
The conviction and the extradition issue have triggered a range of reactions within Bangladesh. Family members of those killed during the protests have applauded the death sentence, viewing it as a step towards justice. However, others have raised concerns about the fairness of the trial and the impartiality of the ICT. Human Rights Watch has criticized the trial for being held in absentia and for failing to meet international fair trial standards.
The strained relations are evident in several recent events. Bangladesh summoned India's envoy to Dhaka to protest against Hasina being given a platform to "spew hatred". Conversely, attacks against Bangladesh's Hindu minority population and the arrest of a Hindu religious leader have sparked anger in India. Despite these tensions, both countries are attempting to maintain cooperation on other fronts. Bangladesh's National Security Advisor recently met with his Indian counterpart, Ajit Doval, in Delhi, underscoring continued engagement on security and economic matters. Trade between the two countries has also continued to increase.
Despite the deep-rooted connections and multifaceted collaborations, the Hasina verdict presents a critical test for India-Bangladesh relations. New Delhi's next moves will be crucial in determining whether the two countries can navigate this challenging period and preserve their historically close ties.
