High Court Justice Md Rezaul Hasan has resigned following allegations of corruption brought against him.
He submitted the resignation letter to the Supreme Court administration for forwarding to the president on Monday.
According to the sources, an investigation into corruption allegations against him was underway at the Supreme Judicial Council.
On 24 November, Shah Group Chairman KM Mojibul Haque filed a complaint with the council, accusing Justice Rezaul of corruption, misconduct and abuse of power. The petition requested an inquiry and recommended action if the allegations were proven.
According to the complaint, Justice Rezaul showed bias in two company cases in 2010 and 2011. In one, arguments were attributed to a senior lawyer who was not present, later overturned by the Appellate Division. In another, 13 lakh shares belonging to the plaintiff’s wife were cancelled without making her a party to the case, which the petitioner said violated principles of justice.
The complaint also alleged that the High Court judge and his relatives possessed assets far exceeding declared income. An analysis of assets, vehicles and tax records showed major inconsistencies.
Further references were made to past controversies involving his family, including reckless driving by his son in a BMW that caused an accident, with attempts to pressure the victim’s family and block media coverage.
Justice Rezaul was appointed an additional judge of the High Court Division in June 2009 and took oath as a permanent judge on 6 June 2011.
In October 2024, the Appellate Division reinstated the Supreme Judicial Council, restoring its authority to investigate and remove judges instead of Parliament.
The Council, comprising the chief justice and the next two senior judges, can now probe allegations of incapacity or serious misconduct. Judges may also resign by submitting a signed letter to the president.
