Law Adviser Asif Nazrul has said the next parliamentary polls may take place by 2025 after the completion of preparations, including the formation of a new Election Commission through a search committee.

"Realistically, I think the election could be held by next year," he said.

The adviser made these remarks during the Thursday night broadcast of the TV program "Ajker Patrika" on Channel I.

He was responding to a question from host Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, chief editor of the Daily Manabzamin, regarding the election timeline.

Asif said a search committee will be formed soon to help form the new EC. The commission will first compile an accurate voter list.

Replying to another query about the potential extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina from India, the law adviser said that Bangladesh has an extradition treaty with India, and if the neighbouring country adheres to the treaty, Hasina should be returned.

Asif said that India will have many legal arrangements. "If India interprets the law honestly, it must repatriate Hasina."

The law adviser said he had never mentioned that any journalist would be tried in the International Crimes Tribunal.

"It was a big misinterpretation of what I actually said," he said.

Asked about a perception that he is the most powerful among the advisers, Asif said that he enjoys the same power as his fellow advisers.

He said Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus holds most of the consultations with the student leaders, and it is done logically.

ASIF OFFERS APOLOGY

Apologising to the people for the price hike of essentials, Asif said the government is working hard and making concerted efforts to improve the situation.

"I apologise to you. I feel so bad. This is intolerable to us. We are working very hard. We are working together," he said.

The law adviser said the impact of the floods is reducing and the winter is approaching. "We hope the situation will improve to a great extent. In some areas, the situation has already started improving."

Asif said the government is doing everything possible to deal with the price hike of essentials.

He said this issue causes mental anguish to everyone in the government.