‘I will return to power if people want’:Hasina says she is not afraid for her life; claims Hindus, Buddhists, Christians unsafe in Bangladesh

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Friday that she was ready to take charge of Bangladesh once again if the people wanted her to. In an interview with news agency IANS, Hasina said she would return to Bangladesh in December 2026. She was not afraid of arrest or the death penalty. Hasina expressed concern over the attacks on Hindu, Buddhist and Christian communities in Bangladesh. She said minorities were not safe and that the matter should be investigated fairly. On extradition, Hasina said it would not affect ties between the two countries Sheikh Hasina was asked about her extradition case. She said, “India is a free country. The government will take a decision according to its laws and procedures. I hope my case will not become an obstacle in relations between the two countries.” The Tariq Rahman government has repeatedly sought Hasina’s extradition. India has also confirmed receiving the extradition request. The Ministry of External Affairs says the matter is being examined under the prescribed legal process. Reiterated intention to return home, said she was not afraid of losing her life Former Prime Minister Hasina was asked about the death sentence and her possible arrest. She said, “I know that I could be arrested, sent to prison or even killed as soon as I return. But I am not someone who retreats out of fear. “I returned to Bangladesh in 1981 despite the military rule. I came back in 2007 even though I knew there was a risk of arrest. Today, the people of my country are in difficulty. In such a situation, I cannot remain away from them. I want to live among my people, even if I have to lose my life for it.” Hasina said: I never ordered the killing of any innocent person Hasina has been sentenced to death over the student movement and the deaths that occurred during it. Hasina said she had never ordered the killing of any innocent person. As prime minister, it was her responsibility to save people’s lives. “I do not accept the tribunal’s proceedings or verdict. I was not given a fair opportunity to defend myself. I will explore legal avenues to challenge this verdict.” In 2024, a student movement began in Bangladesh against reservations in government jobs. Up to 30% of government posts there were reserved for the families of those who fought in the 1971 Liberation War. The students said this was reducing ordinary young people’s chances of securing government jobs. They wanted more jobs to be allocated through recruitment examinations and on the basis of merit. The movement, which began with this demand, gradually turned into protests against the government. Large numbers of people were killed in the government’s crackdown. According to a United Nations estimate, around 1,400 people died during July and August 2024. Bangladesh must not become a battleground for rivalry between major powers Regarding the deal to purchase fighter aircraft from China, Hasina said Bangladesh had every right to modernise its armed forces. Our government had also worked on military modernisation and co-operated with several countries, including China. However, certain issues must be examined before making such a large purchase. Does the country need these aircraft? Can it afford them? Was the deal concluded transparently? And what impact will it have on other countries? India is our neighbour, while China is an important partner in defence and development. Bangladesh should maintain good relations with all countries. It should not become a battleground for rivalries among major powers. ​