Sheikh Hasina Faces Two Tough Choices After Death Verdict As India Holds Key Decision

Bangladesh: Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Sheikh Hasina to death for crimes against humanity. The judgment came after the violent student protests last year. The tribunal said the case was proved in her absence. The court also sentenced former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan to death. Former Police Chief Abdullah Al-Mamun received five years after turning witness. Their properties were ordered to be seized. The verdict shocked the nation. Security around the courtroom was extremely tight.

Where Is Hasina Living Now?

Sheikh Hasina is currently living in India. She left Bangladesh after her government collapsed. The tribunal held the trial without her presence. Asaduzzaman’s location is unclear. Mamun remains in custody after confessing. Bangladesh’s interim government has requested India to extradite Hasina and Asaduzzaman. India has not responded yet. This silence has created more questions. People are wondering what India will decide and when.

Can Hasina Appeal The Sentence?

Experts say she has only one legal route left. She can appeal the tribunal’s verdict in Bangladesh’s Supreme Court. But there is a condition. She must surrender before filing the appeal. The tribunal’s rules give her 30 days from the date of sentencing. If she chooses this path, her last date for appeal will be December 17, 2025. The Supreme Court would then have 60 days to give its judgment. But surrendering seems unlikely for Hasina. She has already rejected the verdict.

Why Might Hasina Avoid Returning?

Hasina called the tribunal biased and politically motivated. She said the ruling came from a non-elected interim government. Her party claims the trial was unfair. Returning to Bangladesh could mean immediate arrest. It would also block her political allies from protecting her. If she does not surrender, her right to appeal will be lost automatically. The death sentence will become final. Her party, the Awami League, may face a ban. This could end her political career completely.

Does Exile Now Depend On India?

Hasina’s second option is to stay in India and reject the verdict. This choice depends entirely on India’s response. India can allow her to live in exile for as long as it wishes. Bangladesh has officially asked for her extradition. India has remained silent. If India agrees to the request, Hasina will be forced back to Dhaka. If India refuses, Hasina may live in exile for years. Her political influence would depend on India’s support. The situation remains delicate.

How Will This Affect Her Party?

If Hasina refuses to return, her party may face serious trouble. Bangladesh’s government may ban the Awami League. Members could be arrested or restricted. Hasina will not be able to challenge the party ban. Many leaders fear losing ground in national politics. Without Hasina’s presence, the party could split. Her long political journey may come to an end. This outcome could reshape Bangladesh’s future. Many observers call this the country’s biggest political crisis.

What Happens In The Coming Weeks?

India’s final response to the extradition request is critical. Bangladesh is waiting for a clear answer. Hasina’s supporters hope India will protect her. Critics want a firm decision. The tribunal’s ruling has intensified regional tensions. Political experts are watching closely. The next steps may decide Hasina’s fate. The pressure on India is increasing. Both nations may face long-term diplomatic consequences.