Government pursuing Sheikh Hasina's return through legal channels only, says law minister

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman has made it clear that the government is proceeding fully within a systematic and legal framework in bringing back ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina. He reiterated that no emotion will be given any place in this process; rather, the strict implementation of state law is the administration's main goal.

He stated the government's firm position while answering various questions from journalists at the conclusion of the inaugural session of a workshop titled 'Integrity in Judicial Activities', organised by Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) at a luxury hotel in the capital on Sunday morning (8 November). TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman and other concerned officials were present at the time.

After the inaugural session, journalists asked whether any legal step or dispute would be taken against the Government of India over Sheikh Hasina's repatriation to the country. In reply, the law minister said that all initiatives in this regard are being completed through statutory and due process.

He said every step of the government will be guided by the full legal framework. In taking any action, the aim is not emotion but to uphold and correctly apply the country's existing laws.

Referring to India's internal legal framework, he further noted that the matter is entirely within that country's own judicial jurisdiction. However, in line with the terms of the existing bilateral prisoner exchange agreement, a formal request has already been sent to hand her over.

He said that as soon as the concerned country hands her over, she will be brought before the court in due course under the provisions of existing law.

Responding to journalists' remarks that India regards Sheikh Hasina as a 'state guest' rather than a prisoner, Md Asaduzzaman took a firm position.

He said, 'Whatever India says, reality does not change just because they say it! Her trial has taken place in an open court in my country. To us she is a criminal — a criminal sentenced by the country's tribunal; that is her final identity to us.'

With the law minister's remarks, the government's position has become clear once again — there is no place for emotion in the question of Sheikh Hasina's repatriation; the entire process will proceed within the framework of the law.