India maintains its cautious approach regarding Sheikh Hasina's potential return to Dhaka. She fled Bangladesh after her government collapsed amid protests in August 2024. Hasina faces a death sentence for alleged crimes against humanity, which Dhaka seeks extradition for. Bilateral relations have seen efforts to stabilize after a significant downturn. The Awami League party was barred from contesting recent parliamentary elections.

The ousted leader has made it harder for New Delhi to keep avoiding a more definite answer about her future in India, where she lives in exile.

Hasina’s return can heighten political divisions in Bangladesh at a time when the government is focused on restoring economic and political stability

Sheikh Hasina says she will return to Bangladesh from her self-exile to face the law