Bangladesh PM seeks 'conducive environment' to reset ties with India

Hasina, who fled to India in 2024 following student-led protests and faces a death sentence in Bangladesh, declared her intention to return in December. The Bangladesh foreign ministry stated it was "outraged" by the event, calling Hasina's remarks "venomous vitriol" against Bangladesh and an "affront to the sovereignty of Bangladesh." Dhaka also reiterated its demand for Hasina's extradition.

India, however, distanced itself from the press conference, stating it had no involvement in its organization and would not endorse any political views expressed. Hasina, who was sentenced in absentia to death, dismissed the criminal cases against her as politically motivated and accused Bangladesh's new government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, of economic mismanagement and political repression.

Rahman had previously met with Indian High Commissioner Dinesh Trivedi to discuss fostering a "conducive environment" to improve bilateral relations and reiterated the call for Hasina's extradition. Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, praised India's hospitality, while former national cricket captain Shakib Al Hasan, an Awami League candidate, experienced an attack on his home in Bangladesh shortly after Hasina's speech.