Barrister Toby Cadman, special prosecutor advisor to the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), expressed hope on Monday that India would uphold the truth and respond positively to Bangladesh’s note verbale requesting the repatriation of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the interest of justice.

He said: "The foreign ministry has rightly called for her extradition from India. Now, it is up to India to decide whether to stand for justice or support her impunity. I hope they will choose justice in the future." 

Cadman was talking to reporters at a press briefing at the ICT in the afternoon.

A renowned international law expert and co-founder of the London-based 'The Guernica 37 Group,' Cadman acknowledged that Bangladesh could not compel India to take favorable action in response to the diplomatic request. 

However, he added, "We can still hope that Sheikh Hasina will be brought back to the country and held accountable in a court of law."

He further assured that the ousted prime minister would be given full legal opportunities to defend herself as per the law.

In response to a question, he also said, "I came here to work as a professional and I would do that. No incidents, or activities from the past would be able to influence my work here. All should keep in mind that there is no room for haste in completing these trial procedures correctly." 

BDST: 2009 HRS, JAN 27, 2025
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