Chief prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam had demanded the maximum punishment, calling Hasina the “mastermind and principal architect” of the violence unleashed during the pro-democracy uprising.
Charges and UN Allegations
Hasina, along with her former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, faced serious charges including murder, attempted murder, torture, and other inhumane acts.
The charges stem from a security crackdown that, according to a February 2025 report by the UN human rights office, resulted in the deaths of up to 1,400 people between July 15 and August 15, 2024. The unrest began over a controversial quota system before turning into a mass anti-government movement.
Trial Status: Hasina and Kamal were tried in absentia and declared fugitives. Mamun appeared in court and later turned approver (state’s witness).
Property Confiscation: Prosecution requested the confiscation of Hasina’s property to be distributed among the families of those killed or injured.
Legal Recourse: Under tribunal rules, Hasina is currently barred from challenging the verdict unless she surrenders or is arrested within 30 days.
Hasina fled the country to India on August 5, 2024, after which Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took over as the chief adviser of the interim government.
Renewed Clashes Precede Verdict
Ahead of the verdict announcement, violent clashes, arson, and crude bomb attacks erupted across Dhaka and several other districts. The interim government took stern security measures, deploying the army and the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and authorizing police in the capital to open fire on violent protesters. (TV9)
For more details: Navamalayalam.com
