Mon Nov 18 17:34:22 UTC 2024: **Bangladesh Charges 13 Ex-Officials with Enabling Massacres, Seeks Hasina’s Extradition**
DHAKA, BANGLADESH (November 18, 2024) – Thirteen former top Bangladeshi government officials, including eleven ex-ministers, a judge, and a former government secretary, appeared in court today on charges of “enabling massacres” during a police crackdown that followed student-led protests in August. The arrests are the latest development since the August revolution that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who remains in exile in India.
The charges stem from the crackdown which resulted in over 700 deaths. Chief prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam accused the 13 defendants of command responsibility, alleging their involvement in planning, inciting violence, and ordering police to shoot protesters. He further stated that the crimes extend beyond the August crackdown, encompassing widespread human rights abuses over the past 16 years.
Hasina, who fled to India on August 5th, is also facing charges of “massacres, killings, and crimes against humanity.” While she was expected to appear in court today, she remains a fugitive. Bangladesh is actively seeking her extradition, having contacted Interpol for assistance and requesting a red notice. While a red notice would alert international law enforcement, India’s response remains to be seen, as extradition decisions are based on individual countries’ laws.
The court has granted prosecutors until December 17th to submit their full investigation report. The defendants, who include prominent figures such as former industry minister Kamal Ahmed Majumdar and former law minister Anisul Huq, listened to the charges but have not yet entered pleas. One defendant attempted to speak, but his request was denied.
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