‘India may no longer want to host Sheikh Hasina’: Asif Mahmud

India may no longer want to continue hosting ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, NCP spokesperson Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain said Wednesday, as he called on New Delhi to hand her over to Bangladesh.

Speaking to journalists after a rally organized by the 11-party alliance at the south gate of Baitul Mukarram Mosque in Dhaka, Asif said there was no longer any question of “diplomatic gain or loss” for India in sheltering Hasina.

“Perhaps India no longer wants to keep Sheikh Hasina,” he said.

Referring to reports that Hasina intends to return to Bangladesh in December, Asif questioned their credibility.

“I don’t think this is a reliable announcement,” he said, alleging that the development appeared intended to send a message to the government surrounding the prime minister’s visit to China.

He further alleged that the move had taken place “in collusion with the Indian government.”

Asif said Hasina should not be permitted to conduct political activities while staying in India.

“Our appeal is that, on this August 5, the Indian government hand Sheikh Hasina over to Bangladesh,” he said, referring to the bilateral mechanism for transferring wanted individuals.

He added that the court verdict against Hasina should be implemented swiftly following her return to Bangladesh.

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