**Bangladesh Issues Second Arrest Warrant for Exiled Sheikh Hasina: Deportation Possible?**
A second arrest warrant has been issued for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh, who is currently in exile in India. The warrant, issued by a Bangladeshi court on January 6, 2025, is related to Hasina’s alleged involvement in enforced disappearances during her time as prime minister. This development raises the question: Will she be deported back to Bangladesh to face trial?
**The Latest Developments**
Sheikh Hasina, aged 77, was declared an absconder after leaving Dhaka on August 5, 2024. The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has stated that the new warrant includes charges against Hasina as well as 11 others, including military advisers and law enforcement officials associated with her administration. Hasina was ousted from power in August 2024 following a student-led revolution that highlighted widespread discontent with her government.
**The Urgency of Justice**
Tajul Islam, the chief prosecutor of the ICT, has emphasized the importance of bringing Sheikh Hasina to justice swiftly. He stated, “We want to ensure the trial concludes as soon as possible,” underscoring the need to adhere to legal processes throughout the proceedings.
**Efforts for Extradition**
The interim government of Bangladesh, led by Nobel Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, has formally requested India to extradite Sheikh Hasina. However, as of now, the Indian government has not responded to this request. The government of Bangladesh is determined to see Hasina face trial for her alleged crimes, with the press secretary to the chief adviser indicating that “pressure will build” for her extradition.
**The Question of Deportation**
The central question that remains unanswered is whether Sheikh Hasina will be deported back to Bangladesh to stand trial. In common law jurisdictions, a trial cannot proceed in absentia of the accused. This means that for the trial to begin, Hasina must be present before the court, either physically or virtually. While Bangladesh has requested her extradition from India, the Indian government’s response to this request is still pending.
In conclusion, the unfolding events surrounding Sheikh Hasina’s arrest warrant and potential deportation highlight the complexities of international legal processes and diplomatic relations. The pursuit of justice in this case underscores the importance of upholding legal standards while addressing allegations of human rights abuses and crimes against humanity. As the situation continues to evolve, the world watches to see what the future holds for the former prime minister of Bangladesh.
