Professor Asif Nazrul, Law and Justice Adviser to the interim government, has indicated that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina could face trial in the International Crimes Tribunal for her alleged role in the killings that occurred during the student-led uprising between July 1 and August 5.
At a press conference held at the Secretariat today, Asif Nazrul announced that the interim government has decided to pursue justice for the killings through the International Crimes Tribunal.
Nazrul stated that the tribunal will address the incidents of mass killings and shootings that took place during the protests. He noted that various student organizations, human rights groups, and public factions have raised concerns about whether these acts could be considered crimes against humanity. Upon review, they found that under the existing laws, those involved in these killings—including those who issued orders and provided support—could indeed be held accountable.
He emphasized, “We will leave no stone unturned. If the former Prime Minister or other high-ranking officials of the previous government are found to have command responsibility, we will thoroughly investigate and bring them to justice.”
The International Crimes Tribunal was originally established in 2010 by the then-Awami League government to prosecute individuals involved in crimes against humanity during Bangladesh’s 1971 War of Independence. Several top war criminals were tried and sentenced under this tribunal.