Protesters gathered in significant numbers near the Indian High Commission in Dhaka on December 18, 2025, in response to demands for the extradition of Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The demonstration, organized by various political and civil society groups, reflects rising tensions surrounding Hasina’s government and its controversial policies.
The protesters, numbering in the hundreds, expressed their grievances over what they describe as authoritarian governance and human rights violations under Hasina’s administration. The calls for extradition stem from allegations of corruption and abuse of power that have been levied against Hasina and her government, particularly in the context of the upcoming national elections scheduled for early 2026. The situation has escalated as opposition parties and activists have increasingly voiced their concerns regarding the fairness of the electoral process and the treatment of dissenters.
The backdrop to the protests includes a long-standing political rivalry in Bangladesh, where Hasina’s Awami League party has been in power since 2009. The opposition, primarily represented by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and other smaller factions, has accused the government of stifling free speech, manipulating the judiciary, and using state machinery to suppress dissent. These allegations have gained traction in recent months, particularly as the electoral landscape has become increasingly polarized.
The demands for Hasina’s extradition are not new but have gained renewed urgency as the political climate in Bangladesh becomes more volatile. Critics argue that the Prime Minister’s actions have led to a deterioration of democratic norms and have prompted calls for international intervention. The protesters near the Indian mission are seeking support from India, which has historically played a significant role in Bangladesh’s political affairs, particularly given the two countries’ shared history and geographical proximity.
India’s relationship with Bangladesh has been complex, characterized by cooperation in areas such as trade, security, and cultural exchange, but also marred by tensions over issues like border management and the treatment of minority communities. The Indian government has maintained a cautious stance regarding internal political matters in Bangladesh, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and non-interference. However, the current situation poses a challenge for India as it navigates its diplomatic ties with Dhaka while responding to the concerns of its own citizens and international observers regarding human rights.
The protests have drawn attention from various human rights organizations, which have called for accountability and transparency in the upcoming elections. The United Nations and other international bodies have expressed concern over the political situation in Bangladesh, urging the government to uphold democratic principles and ensure a level playing field for all political parties. The protests near the Indian mission may serve as a litmus test for the international community’s response to the unfolding events in Bangladesh.
The implications of these protests extend beyond the immediate demands for Hasina’s extradition. They highlight the growing discontent among the Bangladeshi populace regarding governance and the rule of law. As the country approaches the election period, the potential for increased unrest and political instability looms large. Observers note that the government’s response to the protests could either exacerbate tensions or provide an opportunity for dialogue and reform.
In the wake of the protests, the Indian High Commission has issued a statement urging calm and dialogue among all parties involved. The statement emphasized India’s commitment to supporting democratic processes in Bangladesh while respecting the country’s sovereignty. The diplomatic mission has also reiterated its readiness to engage with both the Bangladeshi government and civil society to address the concerns raised by the protesters.
As the situation continues to develop, the eyes of the international community remain fixed on Bangladesh. The outcome of the protests and the government’s response could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s political landscape and its relations with neighboring countries, particularly India. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the demands for accountability and reform will be met or if the cycle of unrest will persist, further complicating the already intricate dynamics of South Asian politics.
