Bangladesh's interim government has raised questions about the reported visa extension granted to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, following the cancellation of her passport on January 7, 2024, according to official statements.
The interim administration has emphasized that visa validity typically terminates with passport cancellation, responding to media reports about the extension of Hasina's visa status in India, where she currently resides.
The International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh has issued arrest warrants for the former prime minister, who faces multiple legal challenges. Official records indicate 31 cases pending against her, including 26 related to loss of life and 4 concerning allegations of genocide.
The development follows significant political changes in Bangladesh, where Hasina's government was recently replaced by an interim administration. The former prime minister departed for India during this transition period.
Legal proceedings against the former leader encompass various charges, with the interim government citing investigations into alleged disappearances and casualties during her tenure. The tribunal is pursuing these cases through established legal channels.
The situation has highlighted complex diplomatic dynamics between Bangladesh and India, with the interim government maintaining that legal processes should proceed according to established protocols, regardless of the former leader's current location.
Records indicate that Hasina's administration, which held power from 2009 until recent events, faced various controversies including political opposition concerns and questions about judicial proceedings against religious party leaders.
The interim government has stated it will pursue legal channels to address these matters, emphasizing the importance of following established international protocols regarding passport and visa status.
