Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina was on Monday sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), which found her guilty of “crimes against humanity” linked to the 2024 student uprising. The verdict marks a historic and deeply polarising moment in Bangladesh’s political landscape, coming at a time when Hasina remains in exile in India after fleeing Dhaka during the August unrest.
Tribunal finds Hasina guilty on three major counts
The judgment, read out by Judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder, declared Hasina guilty on three counts: incitement of violence, issuing orders to kill protesters and failing to prevent atrocities committed by state forces. The court initially considered a life sentence but opted for the death penalty after additional charges were added, citing the “gravity and scale” of the crimes.
Alongside Hasina, former interior minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also handed the death sentence. Former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun received a reduced sentence of five years after cooperating with investigators and pleading guilty earlier this year.
The tribunal stated that the convicted individuals played central roles in authorising or enabling brutal force during the 2024 student-led protests, which left scores dead and sparked unprecedented national outrage.
Charges against Hasina and aides
Hasina and her two top security aides were charged with five major offences:
- Orchestrating mass killings of protesters in Dhaka
- Using helicopters and drones to fire on civilian crowds
- Murder of student activist Abu Sayed
- Incinerating bodies in Ashulia to destroy evidence
- Coordinated killings of demonstrators in Chankharpul
“These actions represent an egregious abuse of state power,” the verdict stated, adding that “no political leader is above the law”.
Hasina rejects verdict as ‘rigged’ and ‘politically motivated’
Reacting from exile in India, Sheikh Hasina issued a strong statement rejecting the judgment. She called the tribunal a “kangaroo court” and alleged that the charges were fabricated to eliminate her politically. The former prime minister continues to deny all allegations, insisting that she was neither involved in nor aware of the unlawful use of force.
Her political party, the Awami League, has also condemned the ruling, calling it a “judicial assassination”.
Bangladesh government welcomes the judgment
The interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has welcomed the verdict, saying it reinforces accountability and the rule of law.
“The courts of Bangladesh have spoken with clarity. The conviction affirms that no one, regardless of power or position, is above justice,” the government said in a statement.
The administration has urged India to extradite both Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, insisting they must face the consequences of their actions.
India’s response measured, cautious
India, where Hasina is currently residing, responded by saying it “has taken note” of the verdict.
“As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including peace, democracy, inclusion and stability,” the Ministry of External Affairs said.
New Delhi has not yet clarified whether it intends to comply with the extradition request, despite Dhaka invoking the bilateral extradition treaty.
United Nations expresses concern
The United Nations reacted cautiously, calling the judgment “an important moment for victims” but expressing regret over the imposition of the death penalty.
The UN Human Rights Office said all international crimes trials must meet global standards of fairness. “We consistently oppose the death penalty under all circumstances,” the spokesperson stated.
What lies ahead for Sheikh Hasina?
Hasina’s future now hinges largely on India’s decision. Bangladesh has made it clear that granting asylum would be considered “a grave unfriendly act” and a setback to justice.
Under the ICT’s rules, Hasina has 30 days to appeal the verdict. However, she can only do so if she surrenders or is arrested. Should she fail to appear, the court may declare her a fugitive — a designation that would trigger significant consequences, including:
- Confiscation of her properties by the Bangladeshi state
- Cancellation of her passport
- Issuance of an Interpol Red Notice
- Intensified diplomatic pressure on India
Meanwhile, the tribunal is preparing to begin the process of property seizure as the first step following the conviction.
Conclusion
As the political, diplomatic and legal fallout continues to unfold, the death sentence of Sheikh Hasina marks one of the most dramatic chapters in Bangladesh’s modern history. With India weighing its options and global institutions urging caution, the next few weeks will determine not only Hasina’s fate but also the trajectory of Bangladesh’s fragile political landscape.