On November 17, 2025, a three-judge bench of Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT-BD) handed former Prime Minister #SheikhHasina the death penalty after finding her guilty of crimes against humanity. The tribunal ruled that she played a central role in ordering a ruthless crackdown on student-led protests in mid-2024, which left hundreds dead.
The Verdict and the Charges
The ICT accused Hasina of issuing “open orders” to use lethal force — including helicopters, drones, and live ammunition — against demonstrators during what came to be known as the July uprising. According to the prosecution, she incited violence, failed to prevent killings, and oversaw a campaign marked by assassination orders and mass murder.
In the 453-page judgment, the court said Hasina’s “command responsibility” was clear: she not only ordered violence but also coordinated with other senior officials. Alongside her, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also sentenced to death. A third defendant, ex-police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, avoided execution after turning state witness.
Reactions: From Relief to Outrage
The verdict has dramatically deepened the political crisis in Bangladesh. Hasina and her Awami League party have called the trial a “kangaroo court,” arguing the tribunal is being manipulated by her political rivals.
From the government’s side, though, many families of the students killed during the protests have reacted with relief, calling the sentence a long-overdue form of accountability.
Security Clampdown and Political Fallout
The lead-up to the verdict was marked by unrest. Security forces were placed on high alert in Dhaka, with armored units deployed to the tribunal area. Authorities have also warned of further instability after the ruling, especially with national elections expected in February 2026 — a vote in which Hasina’s Awami League party is reportedly being kept out.
Hasina’s Defense
Sheikh Hasina, currently living in exile in India, rejected the verdict. In a statement reported by media, she said she was not given a fair trial, labeling the tribunal “politically motivated.” She reiterated that her actions during the protests reflected her efforts to restore order and prevent greater chaos.
Critics Sound Alarm
Human-rights and legal observers have raised serious questions about the tribunal’s impartiality. Some argue that the court’s swift judgment and severe sentencing set a dangerous precedent — particularly in a politically volatile context where power is changing hands rapidly.
What’s Next
- The interim Bangladeshi government says it will seek extradition from India, though New Delhi has not yet responded. Financial Times
- International bodies and human rights organizations are calling for transparency in the tribunal’s operations and due consideration for fair-trial standards.
- Meanwhile, Bangladesh is bracing for intensified political polarization ahead of its next election.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from reputable news sources and verified court reports as of November 17, 2025.
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