Dhaka, Nov 18 (V7N)-  In a significant development, thirteen individuals accused of crimes against humanity were brought to the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) from Dhaka Central Jail on Monday morning. This marks the first instance of accused individuals, out of the 46 named in arrest warrants, appearing before the tribunal.

The accused arrived in a prison van at 10:00 AM and included several high-profile individuals:
- Former Ministers: Anisul Haque, Shahjahan Khan, Faruk Khan, Dr. Dipu Moni, Junaid Ahmed Palak, Kamal Ahmed Majumder, and Golam Dastagir Gazi.
- Former Advisors to Sheikh Hasina: Salman F Rahman and Toufiq Elahi Chowdhury.
- 14-Party Coalition Leaders: Rashed Khan Menon and Hasanul Haque Inu.
- Retired Appellate Division Judge: Shamsuddin Chowdhury Manik.
- Former Home Secretary: Jahangir Alam. 
- Abdur Razzak was not brought to the tribunal as he is currently in remand for another case.
- Shahjahan Khan was presented in court despite health issues, as he is unable to appear regularly.

 
The tribunal's move follows an order issued on October 17, 2024 , by a three-member judicial panel chaired by Justice Md. Golam Mortuza Majumder , to ensure the accused attend proceedings. The Chief Prosecutor confirmed that the accused are being presented for regular attendance and that their lawyers and family members will be allowed in the courtroom. 
This tribunal appearance is part of ongoing efforts to address alleged crimes against humanity. Bringing such prominent figures to court underscores the government’s commitment to justice and accountability, regardless of the individuals' past positions or influence.

The proceedings are expected to draw national and international attention as the cases progress.

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