The United States has stated that the people of Bangladesh must decide on the matter of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s reported application for a new passport and national identity card (NID). Hasina, who has been residing in India since her removal from power and faces a death sentence for crimes against humanity, recently brought the issue of her travel and identity documents into diplomatic focus.
Responding to queries regarding whether Washington holds any specific observation or opinion on Hasina’s application, a spokesperson for the US Department of State placed the decision squarely in the hands of Bangladeshi citizens. “This is an issue for the people of Bangladesh to decide,” the spokesperson said in an emailed statement. Alongside leaving the sensitive domestic matter to the public, Washington emphasised its commitment to maintaining constructive ties with Dhaka. “The United States wants to continue working with the government of Bangladesh to strengthen bilateral relations and advance shared interests,” the spokesperson added.
Hasina’s effort to secure fresh official documentation surfaced last week through a report by the international news agency Reuters. That disclosure came four months after she told the same outlet in July that she intended to return to Bangladesh in December this year to surrender before the court. Her reported move to obtain a passport and NID has since prompted widespread discussion across political and diplomatic circles regarding the logistics and legalities of a potential return.
The legal backdrop to these developments dates back to November last year, when Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Hasina to death in absentia. The tribunal found her guilty of crimes against humanity, specifically citing allegations that she ordered lethal security operations to suppress the mass student-led uprising. Speaking from India, the former prime minister has consistently rejected the verdict and denied all charges levelled against her.
While authorities in Dhaka have yet to issue an explicit public statement regarding Hasina’s latest passport and NID application, the Bangladesh government has maintained a consistent position since her departure, repeatedly urging India to hand her over so she can face justice at home. Meanwhile, officials at India’s Ministry of External Affairs have faced frequent questioning from journalists over Dhaka’s demands for her return. On each occasion, New Delhi has responded by referring to established legal procedures and remedies.
Washington’s remarks reflect a measured diplomatic stance as questions surrounding Hasina’s legal status and possible return remain unresolved. By refraining from commenting directly on the administrative validity of her document applications while reaffirming bilateral cooperation, the US has signalled that the path forward rests with Dhaka and its citizenry.
