No info on whether Hasina granted Indian citizenship: MoFA

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has no information on whether former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has taken any Indian citizenship, the ministry said today (16 January).

Ministry spokesperson Mohammad Rafiqul Alam came up with the remarks while responding to a question at the ministry's weekly briefing.

He also said it is a matter to be considered by the Indian government on what status she is staying in India.

The spokesperson also said Dhaka is waiting for India's reply regarding Bangladesh's new High Commissioner to India as Bangladesh sought agrimo (recognition).

"We are waiting for India's reply. I don't think it is taking more time than usual. There is no specific timeframe but usually it is by 3 to 4 months," said the spokesperson.

Regarding the signed deals between Bangladesh and India, he said these all documents are already in the public domain.

Apparently referring to deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's reported visa extension, the interim government recently said visa issue does not exist once passport is cancelled.

Earlier, the Department of Immigration and Passports revoked the passports of 97 people, including Hasina, due to their alleged involvement in the July killings and alleged involvement in enforced disappearances.

However, the Hindustan Times, a major national daily of India, reported that Hasina's visa extension was recently approved, facilitated by India's Union Home Ministry through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).

Hasina, 77, has been residing in India since fleeing her country in August last year, following widespread protests that culminated in her resignation.

The spokesperson also said they have not yet received a response to the letter (note verbale) sent to India requesting Hasina's extradition.