Security has been tightened in and around the High Court premises since last night as the tribunal is set to announce a date for the delivery of verdict in the case filed against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and two others over crimes against humanity.
Police and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel have been deployed at key points, conducting bag searches and questioning vehicles for security reasons.
The International Crimes Tribunal-1, led by Justice Md Golam Murtuza Mojumdar with members Justice Md Shofiul Alam Mahmud and Justice Md Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury, will today set the date for the verdict.
The two other accused are former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan and former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. Mamun has turned approver in the case and given testimony.
Initially, Sheikh Hasina was the lone accused in the case, which was filed following the reconstitution of the tribunal after the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, 2024. Later, on March 16 this year, the tribunal accepted the prosecution’s plea to include former IGP Mamun as a co-accused.
The investigation report was submitted on May 12, and formal charges were filed on June 1. The tribunal framed five charges on July 10, including allegations of issuing incitement during a press conference, ordering the use of lethal force on protestors, and involvement in multiple killings in Rangpur, Dhaka, and Ashulia.
Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam has sought the death penalty for Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan. Both remain absconding, while Mamun is in custody.
Amid growing tension, Prosecutor Md Mizanul Islam told reporters on Wednesday that law enforcement agencies are fully prepared to prevent any attempt to create unrest. “The trial is being conducted transparently and lawfully. Allegations of irregularities are part of a propaganda campaign,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court administration has restricted entry of outsiders to the National Eidgah ground adjacent to the court premises to ensure overall security. A circular issued Sunday directed police and court security divisions to enforce the restriction strictly.
The case, filed on August 14 last year, marks the first major trial under the reconstituted International Crimes Tribunal since the change in government. Out of 84 witnesses, testimony from 54 has been recorded.
