Sheikh Hasina's Son Visits Mother in Delhi Amidst Extradition Request

Sajeeb Ahmed Wazed, the US-based son of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and a family voice within the Awami League party, arrived in New Delhi on to meet his mother. The visit, confirmed by individuals familiar with the matter, is primar who has been living in self-exile in the Indian capital since last August.

Critics of Sheikh Hasina are saying that members of her family are gathering in India one by one. It's almost like a family reunion there.

Hasina sought refuge in India following the dramatic collapse of her Awami League government amidst widespread nationwide protests spearheaded by student groups. She currently resides in a secure location within the heart of New Delhi. Her sister has been a frequent visitor, travelling between London and India, but Wazed's presence marks the first time Hasina has received a direct family visitor since her arrival in August 2024. Indian officials have remained silent regarding the visit by Wazed, an American citizen also widely known by his nickname, Joy.

"Hasina's son is visiting India primarily to see his mother. He is the first visitor she has received since she arrived with her sister in India in August last year," a source close to the Awami League confirmed, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. As of now, there are no indications of Wazed participating in any public events, and details concerning his full itinerary remain undisclosed.

The timing of Wazed's visit is particularly significant given the fraught diplomatic landscape between India and Bangladesh. The interim government in Dhaka, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has formally requested India to extradite Sheikh Hasina. She faces multiple criminal charges in Bangladesh, and earlier this month, the country's International Crimes Tribunal indicted her for allegedly ordering a police crackdown on protestors last year. The Tribunal has directed authorities to ensure her appearance before the panel on June 16.

Relations between the Indian government and Bangladesh's caretaker administration are currently at an unprecedented low. Tensions have been exacerbated by strong disagreements over Dhaka’s handling of the repression on Bangladesh’s religious minorities, adding another layer of complexity to the already strained bilateral ties. Wazed's quiet presence in Delhi underscores the delicate balance of political power and familial connection at play in the ongoing political saga of Bangladesh.