Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and leader of the Awami League, now faces charges of crimes against humanity. The International Crimes Tribunal brought the case forward, linking her to violent crackdowns during anti-government protests in July and August, according to the Dhaka Tribune.
Allegations of Systematic Violence
Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam accused Hasina of organising a “coordinated, widespread and systematic attack” on protestors. He stated that she deployed both law enforcement and armed party supporters to quell the demonstrations.
Moreover, a United Nations report released on 12 February supported these allegations. It concluded that government forces, intelligence agencies, and affiliated groups carried out serious human rights abuses during the protests. The report estimated that around 1,400 people died between 1 July and 15 August, and most were shot by security forces. Alarmingly, 12% to 13% of those killed were children.
Political Fallout and Legal Proceedings
As the unrest grew, Hasina fled to India on 5 August, bringing her 16-year leadership to an end. Since her departure, authorities have filed 51 cases against her, including 42 for murder. Additionally, two arrest warrants have been issued.
On 10 May, the interim government banned all Awami League activities under anti-terrorism legislation. This included the party’s online presence. Although Hasina strongly denies the accusations, she claims they stem from political motives.
In December, the interim administration sent a diplomatic note to India, formally requesting Hasina’s extradition. India confirmed receipt of the request. In March, interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus told Sky News that further letters had been sent. However, India has not yet responded officially.
Jamaat-e-Islami’s Political Registration Restored
Meanwhile, Bangladesh’s Supreme Court has reinstated Jamaat-e-Islami’s political registration. This decision allows the party to register with the Election Commission and participate in elections, according to AFP.
Historically, Jamaat-e-Islami opposed Bangladesh’s independence in 1971 and was a long-standing rival of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman—Hasina’s father and the nation’s founding leader. In 2013, during Hasina’s tenure, the High Court banned the party from political activity.
Following the shift in power, Jamaat-e-Islami filed a request for a review. As a result, the Supreme Court overturned the earlier ban. Towhidul Islam, representing the Election Commission, confirmed that registration will proceed according to the law.
