Dhaka, Dec 23 (V7N) — The government is treating the return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh as a top priority, according to Shafiqul Alam, the press secretary to the chief advisor. He shared this during a press briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital on Tuesday.

Shafiqul Alam stated that the legal processes to facilitate Sheikh Hasina’s return are progressing swiftly within the framework of Bangladesh’s laws. “The government is committed to bringing Sheikh Hasina back to face justice. The legal steps are in full swing, but these processes require time,” he remarked.

The government has formally requested India's assistance in extraditing Sheikh Hasina. A note verbale has been sent to the Indian government, confirmed Foreign Affairs Advisor Md. Towhid Hossain on Monday. This diplomatic move underscores the urgency the government places on her return.

The press secretary highlighted allegations of human rights abuses during Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year rule. He cited reports from the Disappearance Commission, which claim that approximately 3,500 individuals went missing and thousands were killed extrajudicially. Additionally, he mentioned the deaths of 1,500 people during the "July Revolution," including the tragic case of Arafat, a six-year-old madrasa student who was shot and later died.

Shafiqul Alam also pointed to alleged atrocities such as the Shapla Chattar incident and the violence following the death of Maulana Sayedee. He criticised what he described as false cases filed against 50–60 lakh opposition leaders and activists, which led to widespread persecution.

On the issue of corruption, the press secretary accused Sheikh Hasina and her family of significant financial misconduct. He referenced a white paper report detailing allegations of theft, money laundering, and systemic corruption over 15 years, including claims of $16 billion being laundered annually. “The people of Bangladesh deserve to know how much has been stolen under her leadership,” Shafiqul Alam said.

The press secretary also pointed to a high-profile case involving a peon under Sheikh Hasina’s administration, who allegedly managed transactions worth Tk 626 crore.

The government has expressed optimism that Sheikh Hasina will be brought back soon, paving the way for her to face trial. “We hope the process will be expedited so that justice can be served,” Shafiqul Alam concluded.

END/MSS/AJ