Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to make her first public appearance this Wednesday in New Delhi, marking two years since her government was toppled in August 2024.
The 78-year-old leader, who has resided in India since fleeing student-led protests in Dhaka, is expected to outline her plans to return to Bangladesh during an address at the Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia.
Key Highlights & Developments
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Public Event in New Delhi:
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Sheikh Hasina will speak at the Sir Mark Tully Auditorium (Foreign Correspondents’ Club of South Asia) in New Delhi on Wednesday from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM IST.
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The address will be live-streamed online and will feature remarks from her son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and former Bangladesh Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel.
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Hasina’s Stance on Returning Home:
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Hasina expressed her determination to return to Bangladesh by the end of the year, despite acknowledging severe threats to her life and potential imprisonment.
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She stated that she is under no pressure from Indian authorities and retains the option to stay in India with “respect and dignity,” but feels compelled to return at the call of her supporters.
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Immediate Arrest Threat in Bangladesh:
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Bangladesh’s Law Minister, M Asaduzzaman, confirmed that Hasina faces immediate arrest upon entering Bangladeshi territory before she even gets an opportunity to formally surrender in court.
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Addressing her revoked passport status, Asaduzzaman noted that while her entry mechanics are her responsibility, the government will fully enforce legal procedures given her status as a convict.
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Background on Ouster & Legal Conviction:
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Hasina fled to India on August 5, 2024, following massive student-led demonstrations.
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The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus subsequently banned her political party, the Awami League, under anti-terror provisions.
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In November 2025, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Hasina to death in absentia for crimes against humanity linked to the crackdown on protesters. Hasina has consistently rejected the charges as politically motivated.
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