Akansha singh, Bhopal: Sheikh Hasina says she will return to Bangladesh next month despite a death sentence. Her pledge risks immediate arrest as the banned Awami League faces sustained pressure.
How Did Sheikh Hasina Leave Bangladesh?
Sheikh Hasina served as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister from 2009 to 2024. In July 2024, student-led protests against government policies turned into a massive nationwide movement. The situation became increasingly violent, forcing Hasina to resign on August 5, 2024, and leave Bangladesh for India. According to a United Nations report, around 1,400 people lost their lives during the unrest.
Death Sentence but No Change in Decision
In November 2025, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Hasina to death in a case involving crimes against humanity during the 2024 protests. The court held her responsible for the crackdown on protesters. However, Hasina rejected the allegations and questioned the fairness of the trial, describing the proceedings as politically motivated.
Why Does She Want to Return?
Despite the legal challenges, Hasina has maintained that she wants to return to Bangladesh. In an email interview with the Associated Press (AP), she reportedly acknowledged that she could face arrest, imprisonment and other difficulties after returning. However, these possibilities have not changed her position. She has not provided a confirmed travel date or explained how she plans to return.
India’s Role in the Situation
Bangladesh has repeatedly requested India to extradite Hasina. However, India has not handed her over so far. Her continued stay in India has become an important diplomatic issue between the two neighbouring countries. Any decision regarding her return could have wider implications for bilateral relations.
What Does Her Return Mean for Bangladesh?
In February 2026, Tarique Rahman-led government came to power in Bangladesh. Hasina’s Awami League was not allowed to participate in the elections, and restrictions on the party’s activities remain in place. Her proposed return could create fresh political challenges for the new government.
What Happens Next?
The biggest question is whether Sheikh Hasina will actually return in December. Her announcement is significant, but the legal and political obstacles remain. If she returns, it could become a major turning point in Bangladesh’s politics and its relationship with India.