Dhaka, Dec 05 (V7N)— The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued a ban on the dissemination of alleged hate speech by ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in the media and on social media platforms.

A three-member bench, chaired by Justice Md. Golam Mortuza, delivered the order on Thursday following an application submitted by the prosecution team.

The tribunal directed the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to remove all previously circulated hate speech by Sheikh Hasina from both media and social media platforms. The decision comes after numerous complaints were lodged concerning her virtual addresses, including a speech made from Indian soil to a U.S.-based discussion meeting that was widely shared online.

The prosecution argued that the former Prime Minister's statements contained inflammatory and threatening rhetoric, aimed at inciting unrest and influencing political dynamics.

The tribunal reiterated its earlier order to complete the investigation into Sheikh Hasina's alleged involvement in the July-August genocide case by December 17. The investigation, stemming from over 150 complaints, includes charges of disappearances, murder, and genocide.

Since the case's initiation, 25 individuals, including former ministers and law enforcement officials, have been arrested.

The move follows a series of leaked audio calls purportedly involving Sheikh Hasina, where she is heard making controversial statements and issuing directives to party leaders. The tribunal deemed these leaks as further justification for restricting her public communications, particularly those deemed as hate speech.

The tribunal's decision reflects a broader effort to curb inflammatory political discourse during a period of heightened political tension and ensure accountability for alleged crimes committed during her tenure.

The ICT's ruling underscores the legal system's growing role in addressing hate speech and inflammatory rhetoric, particularly in the digital era. However, the decision also raises questions about freedom of expression and the balance between censorship and justice in politically charged cases.

Further developments are anticipated as the investigation progresses and the tribunal reviews the December 17 report submission.

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