Dhaka, Oct 23 (V7N) – In response to the arrest warrant issued for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has called on the interim government to amend the International Crimes (Tribunal) Act, ensuring a fair and impartial judicial process. The US-based rights organization conveyed this in a letter to Bangladesh's Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs on October 21.

Julia Bleckner, senior Asia researcher at HRW, emphasized the importance of accountability and fair trials. She stated, “Sheikh Hasina and others in positions of responsibility should face investigation and trial, ensuring justice for the widespread abuses during the protests in July and August. Fair trials will strengthen accountability and provide genuine justice for victims.”

On October 17, the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal issued arrest warrants for Hasina and 44 other individuals, including key members of her cabinet. Mohammad Tajul Islam, the tribunal’s chief prosecutor, accused Hasina of overseeing "massacres, killings, and crimes against humanity" during the protests.

HRW warned that without commitment to international legal standards, the interim government risks undermining the justice process. They urged governments, including India, to support extradition efforts once Bangladesh establishes a moratorium on the death penalty and implements fair trial standards.

Additionally, HRW raised concerns about the tribunal's history of violating fair trial procedures under Hasina’s own government, which established the tribunal in 2010 to address 1971 Liberation War crimes. The organization also recommended amendments for greater transparency, witness protection, and the abolition of the death penalty.

HRW further opposed the government's proposed political party ban, advocating that such measures should target individuals convicted of human rights abuses, rather than entire political organizations.

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