Ex-SCBA President writes to Bangladeshi Bar head to ensure Hindus' safety
Aug 08, 2024
New Delhi [India], August 8 : Adish Aggarwala, the outgoing president of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA), has requested Mahbubuddin Khokon, the president of the apex court bar association in Bangladesh, to ensure that Hindus are not intentionally targeted amidst the turmoil in the neighbouring country.
His appeal underscores the need for safeguarding religious minorities and preventing targeted violence against them during periods of unrest in Bangladesh.
He emphasized the role of the legal profession in protecting human rights and expressed concern over reported violence against Hindus in the neighbouring country, urging the Bangladesh Supreme Court Bar Association to ensure their protection from persecution.
Adish Aggarwala, addressing the President of the Supreme Court Bar Association of Bangladesh, also referred to recent reports urging India to arrest former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her sister Sheikh Rehana.
He pointed out that under the 'Treaty between India and Bangladesh relating to Extradition,' signed on January 28, 2013, and ratified on October 23, 2013, extradition requires that the individuals be charged with or found guilty of an extraditable offence.
Aggarwala requested information on any criminal charges against Hasina and Rehana and any formal extradition request made by the Bangladesh government to India.
He highlighted the strong collaborative relationship between the legal communities of India and Bangladesh. He also highlighted his role in leading delegations from the Indian Bar and expressed appreciation for the recognition he has received from the Bangladesh Supreme Court Bar Association on various occasions.
Additionally, he mentioned that several former Chief Justices of Bangladesh have participated in international conferences organised by the Indian legal community in London and New Delhi.
Bangladesh is facing a fluid political situation with Sheikh Hasina tendering her resignation from her post on August 5 in the wake of mounting protests in the country.
A day after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Prime Minister of Bangladesh and left the country, President Mohammed Shahabuddin announced the dissolution of the country's parliament to make way for the formation of an interim administration, Dhaka Tribune reported.
