Dhaka: Nobel Peace Prize winner and advisor to Bangladesh’s interim government, Mohammad Yunus, has leveled serious accusations against Sheikh Hasina’s administration. In an interview with Nikkei Asia, Yunus stated that Hasina’s government has “completely destroyed” the country’s constitutional and judicial frameworks. The 84-year-old highlighted that general elections in Bangladesh would only take place after comprehensive constitutional and judicial reforms.
“We need extensive reforms in the economy, governance, bureaucracy, and judiciary,” Yunus remarked. He added that once the court delivers its verdict in ongoing legal proceedings, India would need to extradite Sheikh Hasina.
Call for Sheikh Hasina’s Extradition to Bangladesh
Yunus alleged that Sheikh Hasina faces charges in the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT). He announced that, following the court’s verdict and sentencing, an official request would be made to India for her extradition. “After the ruling and sentencing are finalized, we will formally request India to hand her over,” Yunus said. He cited an international agreement between the two nations that mandates India to comply with such requests.
Dismisses India’s Concerns About Minority Safety as ‘Propaganda’
Yunus dismissed India’s concerns about the safety of minorities, particularly Hindus in Bangladesh, calling them “propaganda without substantial evidence.” Tensions between India and Bangladesh have risen since Sheikh Hasina was removed from power in August. India has expressed concerns about increasing attacks on Hindus and other minorities in Bangladesh.
The situation worsened after the recent arrest of Hindu saint Chinmoy Krishna Das on sedition charges. Bangladesh further suspended consular services at its Agartala consulate in Tripura following protests and summoned the Indian High Commissioner over the issue.
Vision for Reforms and a New Bangladesh
Yunus emphasized that several commissions have been established to reform the electoral system, constitution, and judiciary. “These reforms will take time as we are essentially building a new Bangladesh,” he said. Despite being a key figure in the transition, Yunus maintained that he is not a politician and has always avoided active politics.
He criticized Hasina’s 15-year rule, accusing her of eroding democracy, economic stability, and public trust. “During Hasina’s tenure, democratic principles were completely disregarded. She orchestrated elections without voter participation, declared herself and her party victorious unopposed, and ruled as an authoritarian leader,” Yunus alleged.
Yunus also proposed reviving the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which he said has been inactive due to strained relations between India and Pakistan.
A Path Forward
The Nobel laureate concluded by highlighting the urgent need for reforms and international cooperation to ensure a brighter future for Bangladesh.