The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified that the status of Sheikh Hasina, ousted Prime Minister and Awami League President, is not a consideration in bringing her back from India.

Mohammad Rafiqul Alam, Director General of Public Diplomacy and Spokesperson of the ministry, made the statement during a weekly media briefing on Thursday (January 9).

Following the August 5 uprising, Sheikh Hasina fled to India and remains there. The Bangladesh government has since canceled her passport. Addressing questions about her status in India, Alam said, “Her return request has no relation to her status. We have sent a formal request and are waiting for a response.”

He also noted that when a Bangladeshi citizen’s passport is canceled, the host country is informed through diplomatic channels. In such cases, the individual does not require a visa.

When asked if Bangladesh would restrict visas for Indian citizens in response to India's visa limitations for Bangladeshis, Alam said the issue falls under the Home Ministry’s jurisdiction.

BDST: 1652 HRS, JAN 9, 2025
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