As the crucial verdict on Sheikh Hasina is underway in Bangladesh, fresh violence has escalated tension. The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is reading the judgment against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, the former leader, who is in exile in India, and there are possibilities that she would face the death penalty.

A few hours before the verdict, Hasina released an emotional audio message on the Awami League’s Facebook page, urging her supporters to defy a government ban on public gatherings. She said, “There is nothing to be afraid of. I am alive… I will stand with the people.” She even asked for widespread protests and motivated her party workers to confront the interim administration.

A nationwide shutdown was called by the Awami League, calling the trial politically motivated. She even criticised the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, accusing him of engineering her removal, and suppressing her party, and above all, making Bangladesh ‘a militant state’. She even said that the activists of Awami League are being harassed and those who are behind the killings are being protected.

Dhaka shaken by Violence

Over the past few days, there have been many explosions and arson attacks in several cities, including Dhaka. On Sunday late night, a crude bomb detonated right outside the residence of interim adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan and a similar explosion happened in the Karwan Bazar area. Reports state that there have been many incidents of burning buses and even a police station’s waste yard being set ablaze.

Orders of open fire have been given by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali. He said the law permits such action against violent attackers and individuals who attempt arson or bomb attacks. As the verdict is being read, the capital is under strict surveillance.

Dhaka has been in lockdown since November 10 and numerous blasts have happened, including an attack at Grameen Bank’s headquarters and other branch offices. Owing to the situation, shoot-at-sight orders have been given for those who are seen creating ruckus and are involved in violence.

How Credible Are the Conflicting Death Toll Figures from the 2024 Uprising?
It has been weeks since Hasina was removed from power, and the interim government has promised elections in February, however, the Awami League has challenged the interim government’s promise, as there are chances the party can be barred from contesting.

A United Nations report released earlier this year clearly states that up to 1,400 people were killed during the 2024 uprising. The figures still remain dicey as the interim government’s health adviser has reported 800 deaths and around 14,000 injuries. The former supremo Hasina has demanded an independent inquiry and rejected all figures.

Why is HASINA Calling the Trial Unlawful?

Hasina rejects all charges against her and calls them fabricated and also accuses the tribunal of violating the 1973 war crimes law. She even called the ICT a “kangaroo court,” and insisted she never ordered any violence during the July unrest; instead, Yunus and his associates did. “The orders came from Dr Muhammad Yunus,” she claimed.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store – https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share