Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has formally requested a new passport and identity card from the Bangladeshi High Commission in New Delhi. This move marks her first public action since fleeing Bangladesh in August 2024. A legal letter dated November 9, 2026, was submitted to the Acting High Commissioner of Bangladesh in New Delhi. Hasina's counsel, Steven Powles KC of Matrix Chambers, made the request on her behalf.
The request cites the revocation of her existing travel documents by the interim government and invokes Bangladesh's nationality laws and international human-rights obligations. Hasina's existing passport and identity card were revoked after she fled Bangladesh amid violent protests. The protests began as student demonstrations against a government-job quota system and escalated into a nationwide uprising driven by high youth unemployment and accusations of authoritarian rule.
Sheikh Hasina led Bangladesh for a total of 20 years, first from 1996-2001 and again from 2009-2024. She resigned and fled the country after security forces' crackdown on the protests resulted in hundreds of deaths, and the government lost control of the streets. Hasina departed by helicopter to India, where she has been in exile for over two years. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed, has previously indicated that his mother intends to return to Bangladesh to face trial.
A caretaker administration headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed power after Hasina's departure. The interim government revoked her passport and identity card and initiated legal proceedings against her. Hasina's request for a new passport and identity card may be a step towards returning to Bangladesh. However, no specific timetable has been announced for her potential return.
The Bangladeshi High Commission in New Delhi will review Hasina's request. The commission's decision may have implications for her potential return to Bangladesh and her ability to participate in the country's politics. Hasina's case has garnered international attention due to concerns about human rights and the rule of law in Bangladesh.
Sheikh Hasina is 79 years old and has been in exile in India for over two years. Her potential return to Bangladesh may have significant implications for the country's politics and stability. The international community will be watching closely as developments unfold in this case. Hasina's request for a new passport and identity card is a significant step towards her potential return.
The outcome of Hasina's request remains uncertain. Her case highlights the complexities of Bangladeshi politics and the challenges facing the country's democratic institutions. As the situation develops, it will be important to monitor the implications for Hasina, the Bangladeshi government, and the wider region.
Key points
- Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina requests new passport and identity card from Bangladeshi High Commission in New Delhi.
