Mon Nov 17 10:18:41 UTC 2025: ## Former Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death for Crimes Against Humanity

Dhaka, Bangladesh – Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT-BD) has sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for alleged crimes against humanity during a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising last year. The verdict, delivered in absentia, found Hasina guilty on three counts, including incitement, ordering killings, and failing to prevent atrocities.

The charges relate to a period between July 15 and August 15, 2024, when the Hasina government is accused of ordering a sweeping security crackdown on student protesters. A UN report estimates that up to 1,400 people were killed during what became known as the July Uprising.

The three-member tribunal, led by Justice Mohd Golam Mortuza Majumder, stated that Hasina undermined the student movement and ordered the elimination of protesters after making derogatory remarks about them. The court further noted that the prosecution proved attacks on students at Dhaka University were carried out by wings of the Awami League, including the Chhatra League and Yuva League, under Hasina’s orders. Specifically, she is accused of directing law enforcement agencies to use drones and helicopters with lethal weapons against the protesters.

Former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also sentenced to death in absentia for abetting the atrocities. Former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, initially on trial, was pardoned after admitting his involvement and providing a full disclosure.

Hasina, 78, fled Bangladesh on August 4, 2024, and is currently living in exile in India. Kamal is also believed to be in India. The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has requested Hasina’s extradition, but the request remains unanswered by Indian authorities.

Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam described Hasina as the “mastermind” of the alleged atrocities, while her supporters claim the charges are politically motivated.

In anticipation of the verdict, security has been heightened across Bangladesh. Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner Sheikh Md Sajjat Ali issued shoot-at-sight orders against anyone involved in violence. Army troops, Border Guard Bangladesh personnel, and riot police have been deployed in Dhaka, with the ICT-BD complex heavily guarded and streets largely deserted. The now-disbanded Awami League had called for a two-day shutdown ahead of the judgement.

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