Bangladesh dismisses diplomats amid Sheikh Hasina controversy in India

The interim government of Bangladesh has dismissed two diplomats from its High Commission in India amid rising tensions surrounding former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The decision, effective August 17, was made by the caretaker government led by Muhammad Yunus. Shaban Mahmud and Ranjan Sen, both First Secretaries (Press), were asked to resign despite their contracts extending until 2026. Their return to Bangladesh is anticipated soon. Sheikh Hasina, who has been in India for over three weeks, fled Bangladesh following her political downfall and is facing numerous legal challenges back home, including serious criminal charges. The presence of Hasina in India has incited public outrage in Bangladesh, with many citizens perceiving her as an enemy of the state and accusing India of providing her refuge. In response to the political unrest, India has also taken precautionary measures by withdrawing non-essential staff and their families from the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. The caretaker government’s revocation of Hasina's diplomatic passport raises the possibility of her extradition to Bangladesh, where she is wanted for over 50 cases, including allegations of murder. While Hasina has not publicly commented on her future, her son has suggested that she may remain in India for an extended period. Initial speculation about her seeking asylum in Western countries has not materialized, as reports indicate that no such countries are currently willing to grant her asylum.