Complaint Filed with ICT Over JCD Leader’s Death

A formal complaint has been lodged with Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) against former Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Monirul Islam and ex-MP Saber Hossain Chowdhury, accusing them of involvement in the death of a Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) leader during recent unrest. The complaint, filed by the family of the deceased, centers on allegations of crimes against humanity stemming from violent clashes in Dhaka between July and August 2024.

The JCD, the student wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), lost one of its leaders during a period of intense protests initially sparked by opposition to a controversial job quota system. The complaint claims that the former DMP commissioner and the ex-MP, along with others, played a role in the events leading to the leader’s death, which occurred amid widespread violence that claimed over 500 lives. The ICT, originally established to address crimes from the 1971 Liberation War, is now tasked with investigating these recent allegations under its amended legal framework.

The filing follows the interim government’s commitment to probe mass killings during the protests under UN supervision, ensuring transparency in the judicial process. The accusations name several high-profile figures, including former Awami League officials, and signal a broader effort to hold accountable those involved in the violent suppression of demonstrations. Social media discussions on X highlight public demands for justice, with many calling for impartial investigations into the deaths of students and activists.

The ICT’s investigation will determine whether the case proceeds to trial, focusing on evidence of systematic attacks against civilians. This development marks a significant step in addressing the recent violence that has shaken Bangladesh, reflecting the public’s push for accountability.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, June 29th, 2025

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