Context:

Bangladesh’s ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was recently sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh (ICT-BD) for crimes against humanity linked to a deadly crackdown on student-led protests in 2024.

About the Case:

• • Hasina was found guilty on multiple counts, including incitement, ordering the use of lethal force, and failing to prevent atrocities during a student-led uprising in July and August 2024 that eventually led to her ouster.
  •  According to a United Nations report, up to 1,400 people may have been killed and thousands injured during the violent crackdown by security forces.
  • The trial was conducted by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), a domestic war crimes court that Hasina herself established in 2009.
  • Hasina has the right to appeal the verdict to the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh within thirty days.

Implications for India:

1. Strategic Setback in Bilateral Relations

Sheikh Hasina has been one of India’s closest political partners in South Asia. Her removal and subsequent death sentence create uncertainty in a relationship that was anchored in strong political trust.

2. Security Challenges along the Border

A political vacuum or unstability in Bangladesh could lead to:

·         Revival of extremist and insurgent elements,

·         Increased cross-border smuggling and illegal migration

·         More porous and volatile border dynamics.

3. Impact on India’s Northeast

Bangladesh is a critical gateway for India’s Act East and connectivity initiatives. Instability in Dhaka may delay major projects such as:

·         India–Bangladesh transit and trade routes

·         Connectivity infrastructure through Tripura, Assam, and Meghalaya

·         Access to Chattogram and Mongla ports

This could slow economic development in the Northeast.

4. Implications for Regional Stability

Bangladesh’s turmoil affects India’s broader strategic interests in South Asia, especially in:

·         BIMSTEC

·         BBIN connectivity

·         Indian Ocean security

A destabilised Bangladesh weakens regional cooperation frameworks that India leads.

Conclusion:

The sentencing of Sheikh Hasina marks a watershed moment in Bangladesh’s political history. It reflects not only the country’s ongoing struggle with governance, accountability, and civil liberties but also the complexities inherent in post-conflict justice. As Bangladesh approaches its next electoral cycle, the challenge will be to maintain stability, uphold democratic norms, and ensure that justice processes are credible and transparent.