Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman has issued a stern warning against those issuing threats from Delhi following the July mass uprising, stating they will be arrested the moment they enter Bangladesh.
He clarified that under the country’s existing laws, there is no provision for their surrender as they are convicted criminals.
The minister further said the “fascist Awami League” would never be allowed to undergo rehabilitation in the country again.
He made the comment on Tuesday night during a parliamentary discussion on a matter of public importance titled “July Mass Uprising and Genocide Trial,” which was presided over by Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal.
Alluding to Awami League President and deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, Asaduzzaman noted that threats of surrender were being “roared” from Delhi due to perceived notes of discord within the nation.
He informed the House that such individuals would be arrested immediately upon crossing the border, and that the nation would stand united against these threats.
Providing an update on legal proceedings regarding the July killings, the Minister detailed that 16 investigations have been completed since the current administration took office, with 12 reports submitted and charges framed in four cases.
He noted that verdicts have already been delivered in three cases, including those related to the murder of Abu Sayeed and the case involving Hasanul Huq Inu.
Regarding the International Crimes Tribunal, Asaduzzaman shared that the prosecution team has selected 109 cases from 590 received complaints. Investigation reports have been filed for 43 cases, and six cases have concluded, resulting in 16 death penalties, 11 life sentences, and 35 prison terms of varying lengths.
While one state witness was acquitted, 26 cases remain under trial and four are currently awaiting a verdict.
Additionally, investigation activities have commenced regarding the Shapla Chattar massacre, the status of the Awami League as a fascist organisation, and July-related killings across various districts.
Asaduzzaman also cautioned against “negative politics” concerning the spirit of the July uprising.
He expressed concern that “deceptive questions in referendums” could lead the nation away from the true goals of the uprising and urged the public to focus on practical measures like Family Cards, Agriculture Cards, and employment generation while resisting hegemony and imperialism.
Finally, he addressed political allies, urging them to learn from history by comparing the treatment of allies by different regimes.
He claimed that while parties allied with the BNP were rewarded with ministerial positions and national flags on their cars, the Awami League responded to its allies by hanging their leaders on the gallows.
He concluded by stating a desire to move forward with “tested political comrades” and allies.
