Dhaka, July 29 (V7N) – The second day of the charge sheet hearing in the murder case of Abu Sayeed, recognized as the first martyr of the July uprising, is underway today (Tuesday) at the International Crimes Tribunal-2. Defense lawyers are presenting their arguments in response to the charges brought against the 30 accused.

In the morning, six accused, including former proctor of Begum Rokeya University Shariful Islam and former ASI Amir Hossain, were produced before the tribunal for the hearing.

Background and Prosecution's Claims

On Monday, the Chief Prosecutor read out the detailed charges against the accused. According to the prosecution, Abu Sayeed’s killing was the result of a planned conspiracy involving members of the university administration, the student wing Chhatra League, and the police.

The prosecutor alleged:

  • A deliberate plan was orchestrated to eliminate Sayeed.

  • After his death, the perpetrators tried to frame Sayeed’s fellow student activists.

  • The post-mortem report was allegedly altered multiple times in an effort to cover up the real events.

Status of the Case

On June 30, the prosecution submitted a formal charge sheet against 30 individuals. The tribunal accepted the charges and set the stage for today’s defense hearing.

On July 22, the tribunal declared 24 of the accused, including the former Vice Chancellor of Begum Rokeya University and the former Rangpur Metropolitan Police Commissioner, as fugitives for failing to appear before the court.

The trial, which has drawn national attention, is considered a landmark in uncovering alleged abuses of power and collaboration between institutions during politically charged unrest.

What’s Next

Following the defense’s submission, the tribunal is expected to set a date for framing charges and moving toward trial proceedings. The case continues to evoke strong reactions from student groups and rights organizations, who see it as a critical step toward justice for the victims of political violence.

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