Major Developments Across South Asia and Beyond – November 24, 2025

Bangladesh Seeks Extradition of Sheikh Hasina

In a significant move, Bangladesh’s interim government has formally requested the extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from India. This letter comes shortly after a ruling by the International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Hasina to death for her role in a crackdown against unarmed protesters during the protests of July-August 2024. Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossein confirmed the communication, which details the court’s judgment concerning Hasina’s actions. As of now, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs has not responded to this extradition request.

U.S. Tech Giants at Odds with Indian Telecoms

In a recent consultation with India’s telecom regulator TRAI, major U.S. technology companies including Apple, Amazon, Cisco, Meta, HP, and Intel have voiced their opposition to Indian telecom giants Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea. These companies are pushing for the allocation of the 6 GHz band spectrum for mobile services, a move U.S. tech firms argue is premature. They urge that the entire 6 GHz band should instead be dedicated to Wi-Fi services.

Protest Against Air Pollution in New Delhi

Amid escalating air pollution, a protest at India Gate resulted in the detention of five individuals on November 23, 2025. The gathering of approximately 50-60 people protested against the worsening air quality, demanding urgent measures to combat the pollution crisis in New Delhi. Local police and the CRPF’s Rapid Action Force were deployed in large numbers to manage the situation, which lasted over two hours.

Justice Surya Kant to Be Sworn in as Chief Justice of India

Justice Surya Kant is set to take the oath as the 53rd Chief Justice of India today. Known for his pivotal role in landmark rulings, Justice Kant’s term will last approximately 15 months, concluding on February 9, 2027. He will succeed Justice B.R. Gavai, who has recently emphasized the importance of the judiciary’s separation from legislative timelines concerning Governors’ responsibilities.

Sindh’s Connection to India: A Cultural Perspective

During a community event, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh remarked on the cultural ties that Sindh retains with India, despite being geographically separated. He noted that while the region may not be part of modern India, it remains integral to India’s civilizational heritage.

Supreme Court to Review Detention of Climate Activist

The Supreme Court will hear a plea regarding the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who is held under the National Security Act (NSA). His wife, Gitanjali J. Angmo, asserts that his detention is an infringement of fundamental rights. The case has garnered significant media attention, with claims that Wangchuk was detained due to his role in inciting recent protests in Ladakh.

The Tejas Crash Investigation

The recent crash of the Indian Air Force’s Tejas fighter jet during the Dubai Air Show has incited speculation regarding its implications for India’s defense capabilities. In response, an investigation team has been dispatched to collaborate with UAE authorities to ascertain the cause of the incident, amid unfounded theories of sabotage circulating on social media.

Lakshmi Mittal Relocates Amid Tax Changes

Steel tycoon Lakshmi N. Mittal has decided to leave the U.K. in light of imminent tax reforms targeting the wealthy under the Labour Party-led government. Reports indicate he may settle in Switzerland for tax purposes while spending significant time in Dubai.

India and Italy Strengthen Anti-Terror Cooperation

During a meeting at the G20 summit in Johannesburg, India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni announced a joint initiative aimed at countering the financing of terrorism. This initiative highlights a shared commitment to addressing global terrorism challenges.

Israel Targets Hezbollah in Beirut Strikes

Israel has confirmed a targeted airstrike in Beirut, claiming to have killed Hezbollah’s chief of staff, Haytham Ali Tabatabai. This action, which Israel describes as a necessary operation to counter threats from the pro-Iran militant group, resulted in civilian casualties including five fatalities and 28 injuries.

Children Escape from Kidnapping in Nigeria

In a positive development, fifty of the children abducted from St. Mary’s co-educational school in Niger state, Nigeria, have escaped from their captors after being taken on November 21, 2025. This incident is part of a troubling trend of mass kidnappings in the region.

U.S.-Ukraine Talks Show Progress

In Geneva, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio reported productive discussions regarding a proposed peace plan to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The dialogue marks a hopeful step in U.S.-Ukrainian relations, suggesting potential avenues for resolution.

Italy Claims Fourth Davis Cup Title

Italy has clinched its fourth Davis Cup title following wins by Matteo Berrettini and Flavio Cobolli against Spain, marking their third consecutive championship. This achievement cements Italy’s prominence in international tennis, reminiscent of the United States’ historical streak from 1968 to 1972.

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