July Uprising killing trials to be held in speedy trial tribunals

The government has decided that murder cases filed over killings during the July mass uprising—excluding those under the International Crimes Tribunal—will be tried in Speedy Trial Tribunals to ensure swift justice.

According to a press release issued by Dr. Rezaul Karim, Senior Information Officer of the Law Ministry, on Monday (October 20), a total of 837 murder cases were recorded across the country in connection with the July uprising. Of these, 45 cases are currently under trial at the International Crimes Tribunal, while police have already submitted charge sheets in 19 murder cases pending before various criminal courts.

The ministry stated that the cases will now be transferred to Speedy Trial Tribunals under Section 10 of the Speedy Trial Tribunal Act, 2000 for expedited proceedings.

To ensure effective and coordinated prosecution of serious offences, including murder, a special committee has been formed, led by an Additional Secretary of the Law and Justice Division.

The committee’s responsibilities include compiling a complete list of all cases filed over killings and other grave offences committed during the July uprising, identifying and addressing existing challenges in prosecution, submitting recommendations to the government for resolving those issues, and keeping victims’ families and the public periodically informed about case progress.

The ministry said the initiative aims to ensure transparency, accountability, and justice for victims of the July uprising through a prompt and coordinated legal process.