Sheikh Hasina, who has been in India for nearly two years, has expressed her intention to return to Bangladesh in December with her party members and surrender to court. Her remarks, made in a Reuters interview, have stirred reactions in both Bangladesh and India. Indian officials maintain that New Delhi neither invited Hasina to stay nor is forcing her to leave, saying she is free to decide based on circumstances.

Analysts and former diplomats in Delhi view Hasina’s statement as a strategic test rather than a firm declaration. They believe her return will depend on how Bangladesh’s political situation and international attitudes evolve in the coming months. Observers agree that Hasina’s comments likely carry India’s tacit approval, as her move could ease Delhi’s diplomatic discomfort whether she returns or not.

Former Indian envoy Pinak Ranjan Chakravarty suggested that Hasina’s return is crucial to preserve the Awami League, while discussions between Dhaka and Delhi on her security cannot be ruled out. Among Awami League members in India, reactions remain mixed, with uncertainty over how many will accompany her back.