Hearing begins against Hasina, others in July Uprising case

The International Crimes Tribunal-1 yesterday began hearing on charge framing against Sheikh Hasina and two senior former officials in connection with alleged crimes against humanity committed during last year’s July uprising.

Also accused in the case are former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. The proceedings were broadcast live on state-run BTV.

The prosecution formally submitted charges on 1 June, which the tribunal accepted on the same day. The three are facing five charges linked to alleged state-sponsored violence against student protesters in mid-2024.

The first charge accuses the trio of aiding, abetting, and failing to prevent attacks on unarmed protesters by law enforcement agencies and ruling party supporters, resulting in murder, torture, and inhumane treatment.

The second charge alleges that the accused ordered the use of lethal weapons including from helicopters and drones — to quell protests. The prosecution claims liability under the doctrine of superior command responsibility.

In the third count, the prosecution holds the accused responsible for the 16 July killing of protester Abu Sayed, claiming they issued directives and conspired in the act.

The fourth charge relates to the killing of six unarmed demonstrators in Dhaka’s Chankharpul area on 5 August. The prosecution alleges this was carried out on the basis of direct orders and incitement.

The final charge accuses the defendants of complicity in the shooting deaths of five more protesters and the injury of another. Prosecutors also allege the victims' bodies were set on fire, with one protester burned alive.

The tribunal is now hearing arguments to determine whether the case should proceed to a full trial. Legal analysts say the case is among the most significant in Bangladesh’s recent history, involving a former head of government and two senior state figures.

The accused deny all charges. Defence arguments are expected to follow once the prosecution concludes its submission.

The tribunal is expected to decide on framing of charges in the coming weeks.