Anbarasan Ethirajan

Former Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina has vowed to return to Bangladesh in December despite being sentenced to death in absentia for crimes against humanity related to the 2024 uprising. She denies the charges and calls them politically motivated, while UN investigators and a BBC-verified recording support allegations that her government authorised lethal force against protesters. Hasina's return from India would likely lead to her immediate arrest and could trigger unrest, while her continued absence risks further weakening or dismantling the banned Awami League. Bangladesh is seeking her extradition, and India's handling of her presence has strained bilateral relations.

Former Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina has vowed to return from India in December despite being sentenced in absentia to death in Bangladesh for crimes against humanity linked to the 2024 crackdown on protests. She denies the charges, but UN investigators and a BBC-verified recording indicate that her government used lethal force against demonstrators, with up to 1,400 people reportedly killed. Bangladesh's BNP-led government wants her extradited and condemned India's decision to allow her to address the media. A return would likely lead to her immediate arrest and could trigger unrest, while staying abroad risks further collapse of her banned Awami League and leaves its supporters vulnerable to violence.

Bangladesh’s new government under Tarique Rahman is seeking greater Chinese investment while attempting to reset strained relations with India following the ouster of Sheikh Hasina. Rahman’s visits to Malaysia and China signal shifting strategic priorities, with agreements on Teesta River management and a special economic zone drawing Indian concern amid regional power competition. Despite improving ties, irritants such as border tensions, trade restrictions and political rhetoric persist. India remains wary of Chinese involvement near sensitive border regions, while China asserts its cooperation is not targeted at third parties. Dhaka’s diplomacy is further complicated by Hasina’s presence in Delhi following her conviction. Both India and Bangladesh recognise the importance of stable relations, leaving Rahman to balance engagement with the two regional powers.

Bangladesh's new government is pursuing deeper economic and strategic engagement with China while attempting to repair strained relations with India following Sheikh Hasina's ousting. Tarique Rahman's early visits to Malaysia and China signalled a shift in Dhaka's priorities, drawing concern from India, especially over Chinese involvement in managing the Teesta River and developing a special economic zone. Although cross‑border activities with India have begun to normalise, tensions persist due to anti‑India sentiment in Bangladesh and disputes over alleged border pushbacks. China has expanded its influence through defence sales and proposed regional corridors, while India aims to reset ties despite complications arising from Hasina's presence in Delhi. Dhaka continues balancing the interests of both regional powers as it navigates sensitive security and economic issues.