ICT Case: Prosecution Seeks Charges Against Hasina and Others

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh is advancing its investigation into the July 2024 mass uprising, with prosecutors requesting formal charges against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and several associates. The case centers on allegations of crimes against humanity, including murder, torture, and the use of lethal force during the protests that led to the collapse of Hasina’s government.

On July 1, 2025, the ICT, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder, scheduled a hearing to consider framing charges against Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. The prosecution alleges that the accused orchestrated a violent crackdown, resulting in over 1,400 deaths and thousands of injuries. Specific charges include ordering the use of deadly weapons, such as helicopters and drones, to suppress protesters, as well as the burning of bodies to conceal evidence.

The tribunal has appointed state defense lawyers for Hasina and Kamal, who are currently in India, as efforts to secure their appearance continue. Arrest warrants were issued earlier, and newspaper advertisements were ordered to summon them. Meanwhile, Mamun’s family has appointed a private defense lawyer. The prosecution is pushing for a swift trial, aiming to conclude by December 2025, though the timeline depends on the tribunal’s discretion.

Public sentiment on X reflects mixed views. Some users see the case as a step toward justice for the victims of the uprising, while others question the tribunal’s impartiality, citing political motivations under the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus. The case has also drawn attention due to a separate contempt proceeding against Hasina over a leaked audio where she allegedly made inflammatory remarks.

This case marks a significant moment in Bangladesh’s pursuit of accountability for the July uprising, with the ICT’s actions closely watched both domestically and internationally.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 1st, 2025

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