One more justice of the High Court Division has resigned amid allegations of irregularities, corruption, and abuse of power, bringing the total number of judges dismissed or forced to quit after Sheikh Hasina’s fall to 12, while two others remain sidelined.
High Court Division Justice Md Rezaul Hasan resigned on Monday, citing personal reasons, although the Supreme Judicial Council (SJC) was investigating multiple allegations against him.
Confirming the development, Supreme Court Registrar General Muhammad Habibur Rahman Siddiqui said on Tuesday the resignation letter had been forwarded to the president in line with the rules.
The 11 High Court Division judges removed or quit are:
Two other justices remain out of judicial duties following a student movement against them in October 2024 over similar allegations. They are:
Allegations against justice Hasan
A complaint was filed with the SJC on 24 November last year by Shah Group Chairman KM Mozibul Haque, alleging corruption, misconduct and abuse of power.
The petition sought an investigation and constitutional action if the allegations were proven.
Under the law, allegations of incapacity or serious misconduct against a judge are examined by the SJC, comprising the chief justice and the two next senior-most judges.
If proven, the council recommends removal or other action to the president.
Sources said the judge showed bias in two company cases in 2010 and 2011.
In one case, arguments were recorded in the name of a senior lawyer despite his absence, which was later set aside by the Appellate Division.
In another, 13 lakh shares belonging to the petitioner’s wife were cancelled without making her a party, raising concerns over due process.
KM Mozibul Haque also alleged that the wealth of the judge and his relatives far exceeded their declared income.
A review of assets, vehicles, properties and tax records showed significant inconsistencies, he claimed.
The petition further cited controversies involving the judge’s family, questioning judicial conduct and affecting the judiciary’s image.
It mentioned a reckless driving incident involving his son’s BMW car, alleged pressure on the victim’s family, and attempts to prevent media disclosure.
It also referred to an incident where the judge allegedly refused to pay toll while travelling outside official duty.
Justice Md Rezaul Hasan was appointed an additional judge in June 2009 and became a permanent judge on 6 June 2011.
Earlier, High Court Justice Mamnun Rahman resigned on 2 February, followed by Justice Naima Haider on 5 February. Both resignations were accepted by the president.
High Court Division Justice Muhammad Khurshid Alam Sarkar was removed on 5 November last year under Article 96(6) of the Constitution on grounds of incapacity.
In October 2024, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court reinstated the Supreme Judicial Council, restoring its authority to remove judges.
The previous Awami League government had earlier transferred this power to parliament through the Sixteenth Amendment, which was later declared illegal by the courts.
The Appellate Division disposed of the review petition on 19 October 2024, allowing the SJC to investigate allegations and enabling judges to resign by submitting a signed letter to the president.
