Bangladesh's interim government has formally requested India to extradite former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been living in exile in India since August 5. The move comes after her 16-year tenure was brought to an abrupt end by widespread student-led protests.

The Dhaka-based International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued arrest warrants against Hasina, now 77, along with several of her former Cabinet ministers, advisers, and military and civil officials. They face allegations of "crimes against humanity and genocide."

Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain confirmed that a diplomatic note, known as a note verbale, has been sent to New Delhi requesting Hasina's return to Bangladesh for legal proceedings. "We have officially communicated with the Indian government, expressing our intention to bring her back for judicial processes," Hossain informed reporters.

Earlier, Home Adviser Jahangir Alam revealed that his office had initiated steps to facilitate the extradition. "We have written to the foreign ministry to expedite the process. Efforts are currently underway," he stated in response to media queries.

Alam added that an existing extradition treaty between Bangladesh and India could pave the way for Hasina's return under legal protocols.