Bangladesh Charges Ex-PM Sheikh Hasina With Crimes Against Humanity

Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has formally charged former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina with crimes against humanity for her alleged role in orchestrating violent crackdowns during the 2024 student-led uprising, which resulted in over 1,500 deaths and 25,000 injuries. Prosecutors claim Hasina directly ordered state security forces, her party, and affiliated groups to carry out planned operations involving widespread killings, torture, and violence, including targeting women and children. The proceedings, broadcast live for the first time in Bangladesh, also name former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun as co-accused. Hasina, who resigned and fled to India following the protests, faces multiple cases before the ICT, including allegations related to enforced disappearances and earlier crackdowns. The tribunal's investigation cited video evidence, encrypted communications, and witness testimonies to support the charges, with potential penalties including the death sentence. This marks a significant moment in Bangladesh's legal and political history, as the nation confronts accusations against its former long-term leader for alleged systematic human rights abuses.