Authorities are preparing a new case against former Bangladeshi leader Sheikh Hasina and her sister Sheikh Rehana for allegedly leaving the country without immigration clearance. The case, based on the 2013 Immigration Act, accuses them of illegally departing from Dhaka’s Bir Uttam AK Khandaker Air Base on August 5, 2024, using diplomatic and British passports without completing formal procedures. Investigators have completed their inquiry and may include those who assisted in the escape as co-accused.

According to the investigation, Hasina personally decided to flee to India amid the student and public uprising that forced her resignation. Audio evidence and testimonies from officials who accompanied her have been collected. Legal experts cited in the report said both sisters violated Bangladeshi and Indian immigration laws. Indian officials confirmed Hasina is under legal process in India and cannot leave voluntarily.

The current Bangladeshi government has requested Hasina’s extradition to enforce her death sentence handed down by the International Crimes Tribunal. Ministers have reiterated their commitment to bring her back and execute the court’s verdict.