Trial of Joy, Palak begins at ICT

Charges have been framed at the International Crimes Tribunal against Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and former State Minister for ICT Junaid Ahmed Palak, on allegations of genocide and crimes against humanity linked to the internet shutdown during the July mass uprising.

A three-member Tribunal-1, led by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder, on Wednesday rejected their discharge petitions and ordered the commencement of trial proceedings. At the same time, the tribunal fixed February 18 for the prosecution’s opening statement and the recording of testimony.

At the time of charge framing, Junaid Ahmed Palak was present before the tribunal. When asked whether he pleaded guilty to the charges brought against him, he pleaded not guilty and sought justice.

State-appointed counsel Monjur Alam appeared for Sajeeb Wazed Joy, while advocate M Liton represented Junaid Ahmed Palak. The tribunal framed charges against both accused on a total of three counts.