Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has stated that the stay of former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in India is a personal decision influenced by the circumstances that led her to seek refuge in the country. Speaking at the HT Leadership Summit in New Delhi on Saturday, December 6, 2025, Jaishankar addressed questions regarding Hasina's presence in India and the broader India-Bangladesh relationship.

When asked whether Hasina was welcome to remain in India indefinitely, Jaishankar responded, "Well, that's a different issue, isn't it?". He further explained that Hasina came to India under specific circumstances, which are a significant factor in determining her future course of action. "She came here in a certain circumstance, and I think that circumstance clearly sort of is a factor in what happens to her. But again, that is something in which she has to make up her mind," Jaishankar said.

Hasina fled to India with her sister, Sheikh Rehana, on August 5, 2024, following a mass uprising in Bangladesh. She has remained in India since then. Recently, she was sentenced to death in absentia by the International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity. Following her conviction, Bangladesh formally requested India to facilitate Hasina's return to face trial for alleged crimes committed by her administration during the July-August uprising.

Jaishankar also emphasized India's stance on the importance of a credible democratic process in Bangladesh. He noted that India wishes Bangladesh well and believes that any democratic country would want to see the will of the people ascertained through a democratic process. He expressed confidence that the outcome of a fair electoral process would be beneficial for regional relations. "As far as we are concerned, we wish Bangladesh well. We think as a democratic country, any democratic country likes to see the will of the people ascertained through a democratic process," he stated.

Regarding the broader India-Bangladesh relationship, Jaishankar underscored India's preference for a robust democracy in its neighboring country, expressing optimism for the future of bilateral ties. He added that he was confident Bangladesh's democratic outcomes would lead to a balanced and mature view of its relationship with India.

Jaishankar's comments suggest that New Delhi will continue to emphasize democratic values while respecting Hasina's personal choices. India has conveyed that it had taken note of the verdict. The Ministry of External Affairs issued a statement saying, "As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country".