On August 3, 2025, the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka initiated proceedings against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two aides, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, for alleged crimes against humanity. The charges stem from their roles in the violent suppression of the July-August 2024 student-led uprising, which resulted in approximately 1,400 deaths, according to United Nations estimates.
Details of Prosecution for Crimes Against Humanity
The prosecution, led by Mohammad Tajul Islam, presented its opening statement, alleging that Hasina orchestrated a coordinated attack on protesters, involving law enforcement and armed affiliates of her Awami League party. The charges include murder, attempted murder, torture, and inhumane acts. The tribunal, broadcast live on Bangladesh Television, saw the presence of state-appointed defense counsel for Hasina, who is currently in exile in India, and Kamal, while Al-Mamun, in custody, has pleaded guilty and agreed to testify as a state witness.
Establishment of ICT
The ICT, originally established by Hasina in 2009 to address 1971 war crimes, now probes her administration’s actions. Evidence includes video footage, audio recordings, and victim testimonies, with prosecutors highlighting Hasina’s alleged orders to use lethal force against unarmed demonstrators. The trial, set to continue with witness testimonies, marks a significant moment in Bangladesh’s pursuit of accountability for the 2024 violence.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 3rd, 2025
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