Toby Cadman, a prominent human rights lawyer and special adviser to the chief prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh, today expressed hope that India will respect Bangladesh's judicial process and extradite former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

Speaking to the press after meeting with the ICT's Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam and officials from the tribunal's investigation agency, Cadman emphasised India's responsibility as a democratic nation to uphold the rule of law.

"If the Bangladesh government makes a formal request, India, as a democratic country, should respect that request and return Sheikh Hasina," Cadman stated.

The chief prosecutor noted that Cadman was impressed by the effectiveness of recent amendments to the ICT law.

"He acknowledged the improvements we've made and indicated that further amendments might be required, which we will discuss together," Tajul said.

Cadman also outlined potential legal steps if India refuses to extradite Hasina after formal charges are filed.

He suggested that a trial, in absentia, could proceed under the the relevant international law, with Bangladesh potentially seeking assistance from the International Criminal Court (ICC) at a later stage.

Addressing concerns about the death penalty, Cadman clarified that decisions regarding the capital punishment for crimes against humanity lie exclusively with the court.

He added that whether the provision remains in the law will depend on public demand and practical situation in Bangladesh.