The Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League regime in Bangladesh was toppled on August 5. (File photos)PTI

We will seek Sheikh Hasina's extradition from India: Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus

The interim government in Bangladesh has accused Sheikh Hasina of ordering brutal suppression of the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement, resulting in over 700 deaths during the July-August protests.

by · India Today

In Short

  • Sheikh Hasina fled to India after Awami League's ouster in August
  • Bangladesh interim government accused Hasina of suppressing protests
  • Over 60 cases filed against Hasina, her party leaders for alleged crimes

Bangladesh Chief Adviser and Nobel laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus has announced plans to seek the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India after the ouster of her Awami League government in August this year.

Yunus, who heads the Bangladesh interim government, made the statement during a televised address earlier in the day, marking the 100th day of his administration.

"We will ensure justice for every killing during the July-August revolution," Yunus declared. "Efforts to prosecute those responsible are progressing well, and we will demand Hasina’s return from India to hold her accountable".

The Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League regime was toppled on August 5 in the face of a mass upsurge originating from a quota reform campaign by the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement. Three days later Nobel laureate Muhammad assumed office as the Chief Adviser of the interim government.

Yunus's recent remarks came a week after his interim government said it will seek Interpol's assistance in repatriating the deposed Prime Minister from India and other 'fugitives' to face trial for alleged crimes against humanity.

The current government has accused Hasina and her party leaders of ordering brutal suppression of the Anti-Discrimination Students Movement, which resulted in several deaths during the July-August protests.

What began as student-led demonstrations later escalated into a nationwide uprising, compelling Hasina to flee the country in secrecy, and seek refuge in India.

According to the interim government, at least 753 people were killed and thousands injured during the protests, which it termed "crimes against humanity and genocide".

Over 60 case of crimes against humanity and genocide have been registered against Hasina and her party leaders.

"A Red Notice will be issued through Interpol very soon. No matter where in the world these fugitive fascists are hiding, they will be brought back and held accountable in court," Bangladesh Law Affairs adviser Asif Nazrul had said last week.