Trial Begins Against Former PM Sheikh Hasina Over Alleged Crimes Against Humanity

Correspondent Dhaka

DHAKA, August 3, 2025,The International Crimes Tribunal-1 yesterday heard the first witness in a landmark case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is facing charges of crimes against humanity during the 2024 mass uprising that led to the collapse of her government.

The witness, Khokon Chandra Barman, a microbus driver, gave a chilling account of being shot in the face during a protest in Jatrabari on August 5, 2024. His testimony marks a crucial moment in a trial seen by many as a test of Bangladesh’s commitment to justice and accountability.

They Left Me to Die:
I was shot directly in the face—my left eye, nose, and mouth were shattered,” Barman told the three-member tribunal, led by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder. “I was lying in blood. A policeman removed the cloth from my face, saw the damage, and walked away.”

Barman alleged that the state machinery operated under direct orders from top officials, naming Sheikh Hasina, then-home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, AL general secretary Obaidul Quader, former IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun, and ruling party MP Shamim Osman.

They are responsible for the deaths of thousands of innocent students and workers,” he said. “I want exemplary punishment.

Defense Challenges, Witness Holds Ground
During cross-examination, defense lawyer Advocate Md Amir Hossain questioned whether Barman had any direct evidence linking the accused to the violence. “I may not have documents,” Barman replied, “but I saw what happened on the ground.

The defense claimed that protesters had initiated violence, resulting in the deaths of 13 police officers. The witness dismissed the claim, calling it a political fairytale.

Justice, Not Revenge:
Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam said in his opening statement that the trial is not about revenge. “This is about history,” he said. “No one is above the law, not even a former head of government. The court must deliver justice, not only for the victims, but for the conscience of the nation.”

He added that the prosecution would establish Hasina’s superior responsibility in at least five incidents of mass killings and targeted violence.

Attorney General’s Harsh Words
Attorney General Asaduzzaman, in a rare courtroom appearance, did not mince words. “History has known many dictators, Hitler, Mussolini, Stalin, but Sheikh Hasina outdid them all,” he said. “She didn’t just rule; she suppressed truth. She was a master of deception.”

He cited historical precedents, including the posthumous punishment of British dictator Oliver Cromwell, to underscore that “no tyrant escapes justice forever.

The Charges
According to the prosecution, Hasina and her associates are accused of five key incidents:
The killing of 1,500 civilians and the injuring of over 25,000 following her July 14 speech allegedly inciting violence. Authorizing drone and helicopter attacks to disperse protesters.The fatal shooting of student Abu Saeed in Rangpur.The death of six demonstrators in Chankharpul.The burning of six civilians in Ashulia.The prosecution maintains that these actions amount to crimes against humanity under international law.

A Co-Accused Turns State Witness
In a major development, former IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun turned state witness on July 10 after confessing to his role. He was granted conditional immunity and appeared in court yesterday to confirm his cooperation with the tribunal.

Looking Back: The July Uprising
The charges stem from the widespread student-led uprising on August 5, 2024, which toppled the Hasina-led government. Since then, multiple cases have been filed, including a six-month jail term handed down last month for contempt of court.

The hearing will continue in the coming weeks. The tribunal has adjourned until the next scheduled session.