Mon Nov 17 07:36:14 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article rewrite based on the provided text:

Summary:

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT-BD) is delivering its verdict in absentia against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two aides, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, on charges of crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the “July Uprising” of 2024. The charges stem from a government crackdown on student-led protests that led to the fall of Hasina’s government. Hasina and Kamal fled to India, while Mamun initially faced trial in person. Prosecutors seek the death penalty. Hasina claims the tribunal is politically motivated and has offered to stand trial under international supervision. Security is high in Bangladesh amidst fears of violence, and a shutdown has been called by Hasina’s now-disbanded Awami League. The interim government has sought Hasina’s extradition from India, with no current response.

News Article:

Bangladesh Tribunal Issues Verdict Against Ex-PM Hasina In Absentia

Dhaka, Bangladesh – The International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh (ICT-BD) today began delivering its verdict in the case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is being tried in absentia on charges of crimes against humanity. The charges relate to the government crackdown during the “July Uprising” of 2024, a period of intense student-led protests that ultimately led to the collapse of her Awami League government.

The three-member tribunal is also issuing judgments against Hasina’s two aides: former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for all three.

Hasina, 78, is accused of masterminding atrocities during the protests, which a UN report estimates resulted in 1,400 deaths. The prosecution alleges that she ordered the “extermination” of protesters and directed the use of deadly force.

Hasina fled Bangladesh in August 2024 amidst the unrest and is currently residing in India. Kamal is also believed to be in India. The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has requested Hasina’s extradition, but India has not yet responded.

In interviews, Hasina has denounced the tribunal as a “kangaroo court,” asserting that the charges are politically motivated and that she is willing to face trial under international supervision.

Security has been significantly heightened across Bangladesh in anticipation of the verdict. The Awami League, now disbanded, called for a two-day shutdown. The streets of Dhaka are largely deserted, with a heavy security presence, including army troops, border guards, and riot police.

Read More