28 actors, actresses and journalists face tribunal complaints over July uprising 'instigation'

An organisation named Rashtra Sanglap Forum (SDF) has filed complaints with the International Crimes Tribunal against 28 individuals from the entertainment and media industries, accusing them of "instigation, complicity and incitement" in crimes against humanity during the July 2024 uprising.

The complaints were submitted on Sunday (July 26) by Al Nur Mohammad Ayas, the organisation's central member secretary, to the Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, Aminul Islam. Central chief organiser Muhyaman Shah Alam Badsha, central organisers Mohasin and Abu Bakar Siddique (also known as Tuhin Farazi) were also present.

Those accused include actors Asaduzzaman Noor, Azizul Hakim, Ferdous Ahmed, Riaz Ahmed, Simon Sadik, Zayed Khan, Saju Khadem; actresses Meher Afroz Shaon, Aruna Biswas, Shomi Kaiser, Rokeya Prachi, Mahiya Mahi, Nipun Akhtar, Tanvin Sweety, Hridi Haq, Jyotika Jyoti, Sohana Saba, Pia Jannatul, Shamima Tushti, Ashna Habib Bhabna, Sujata Azim, Maria Kisportta, Shanta Farzana, Hero Alom, Chandan Reza; and journalists Anis Alamgir, Momin Mehedi and Soma Islam.

The complaint alleges that the accused were involved in "instigation, complicity and incitement" in crimes against humanity and genocide committed during the July uprising. The appeal was made to the International Crimes Tribunal for an impartial, transparent and lawful investigation into the allegations.

After submitting the complaint, Al Nur Mohammad Ayas told journalists they have sought legal action against the individuals for allegedly mocking and disrespecting the July uprising. He said necessary action should be taken following an impartial investigation.

However, the International Crimes Tribunal has not yet made any decision on the matter. No immediate response was available from the individuals named in the complaint.