On June 7, the prosecution is prepared to present formal allegations against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh. This noteworthy development is linked to allegations of crimes against humanity that were committed during the mass insurrection that occurred in July and August 2024. The announcement was made during a discussion at Dhaka’s National Press Club, as reported by Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), and the allegations are based on extensive evidence gathered during the investigation, according to Chief Prosecutor Md Tajul Islam.
The investigation report submitted by the Tribunal’s Investigation Agency on May 12, 2025, is the foundation of the case against Hasina. This report accused Sheikh Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and retired police superintendent Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun of five specific charges of crimes against humanity during the period of unrest. The prosecution claims that Hasina, in her capacity as the head of government, directly ordered and coordinated an assault on protestors, which resulted in mass casualties. According to reports, the evidence consists of video footage, encrypted communications, and testimonies from victims and witnesses. This suggests that over 1,500 individuals were murdered, over 25,000 were injured, and many were subjected to torture and inhumane treatment.
A controversial Supreme Court decision in June 2024, which reinstated a 30% quota in civil service employment for descendants of 1971 Liberation War veterans, was the catalyst for the mass uprising. The reversal of a previous order that had abolished such quotas resulted in widespread student protests. The demonstrations, which were initially nonviolent, escalated into violence as a result of what many perceive as a heavy-handed government response. Ultimately, Hasina was compelled to resign in August 2024 after nearly 15 years in office due to the intense domestic and international scrutiny brought about by the scale of the crackdown and the resulting death toll. She subsequently retreated to New Delhi, where she continues to live in self-imposed exile.
More ICT Cases
Sheikh Hasina is currently facing two additional ICT cases alongside the existing accusations. One of the allegations pertains to deaths that transpired during the 2013 Hefazat-e-Islam rally at Shapla Chattar in Dhaka, while the other concerns allegations of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial murders during her tenure in office. These cases underscore the wide range of legal challenges confronting the former prime minister and her associates.
Within Bangladesh and internationally, the trial of Hasina and her co-accused is being attentively monitored. The trial will be broadcast live on state television for the first time in the country’s history, as the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has committed to impartiality and transparency. The prosecution maintains that the case is not politically motivated, underscoring the significance of accountability and justice in a democratic society. In the interim, Hasina has denied the allegations, claiming that they are politically motivated, and has maintained her innocence from exile.
This case represents a significant shift in the political landscape of Bangladesh. The same ICT that was established by Hasina’s own government in 2009 to try war crimes from the 1971 Liberation War is now being used to prosecute her and her erstwhile officials. The dynamics of legal and political authority in Bangladesh are underscored by this reversal. The results of these proceedings are expected to have a significant impact on the country’s governance, rule of law, and transitional justice approach.
A Difficult Return
Sheikh Hasina is currently residing in a high-security safehouse in New Delhi, India, specifically within the Lutyens’ Bungalow Zone. This prestigious and well-guarded area is typically reserved for senior government officials and dignitaries. Hasina fled Dhaka hastily and covertly after resigning on August 5, 2024, in the midst of mass protests and an escalating disturbance in Bangladesh. She initially traveled to the Hindon Air Force base near Delhi before being relocated to her current secure residence. Her security during her visit to India is strictly monitored by elite commandos and plainclothes personnel. People occasionally observe her in public, especially during treks in Lodhi Garden, but they strictly restrict and closely monitor her movements.
The Indian government’s political decision to provide Hasina with temporary refuge in India subsequent to her departure is the cause of her presence in the country. Her stay has lasted for several months, despite initial expectations that it would be a temporary arrangement. Despite her efforts, she has been unable to obtain asylum in other countries, such as the United Kingdom or one in the Middle East. The new Bangladeshi interim government has formally requested her repatriation. It is seeking Interpol’s assistance to bring her back to face trial on charges of crimes against humanity, which has created a diplomatic dilemma for New Delhi resulting from her protracted stay in India.
The political context and Hasina’s current location substantially complicate her potential return to Bangladesh. India’s decision to host her is a contentious matter due to the historical association between the two countries and the perception among certain Bangladeshis that India supported her regime. Hasina’s return would almost undoubtedly result in immediate arrest and prosecution, as the interim Bangladeshi government, currently led by Muhammad Yunus, has declared its intention to pursue legal action against her. Additionally, Hasina is confronted with considerable legal and personal repercussions in the event that she returns, as her assets are frozen and she is currently facing numerous charges. Therefore, it is unlikely that she will be able to return to Bangladesh in the near future, and she will remain in a state of self-imposed exile for the foreseeable future unless there is a significant change in the political landscape or a new arrangement for her protection and legal status.