Dhaka, Nov 17 (V7N) – Security has been intensified in the Supreme Court and International Crimes Tribunal areas as the army and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed ahead of today’s verdict in the crimes against humanity case against ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

A substantial number of army personnel were seen taking positions from early Monday (November 17). According to Supreme Court sources, a formal letter requesting military deployment was issued to the Army Headquarters by the Supreme Court administration. The court administration confirmed the issuance of the letter on Sunday (November 16).

This follows a similar request made last Thursday during the announcement of the verdict date, when army personnel were also deployed across the Supreme Court and tribunal premises.

The three-member International Crimes Tribunal-1, headed by Justice Md. Golam Mortuza Majumder, is set to deliver the verdict today. The other judges on the panel are Justice Md. Shafiul Alam Mahmud and Judge Md. Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury.

Charges Against Sheikh Hasina and Co-Accused

On June 1, the prosecution submitted a formal complaint against Sheikh Hasina and three other accused, bringing five specific charges:

  1. Delivering a provocative speech at Ganabhaban on July 14 last year.

  2. Ordering the use of helicopters, drones, and lethal weapons against protesters.

  3. Shooting and killing Abu Sayeed, a student of Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur.

  4. Shooting and killing six protesters in Chankharpul, Dhaka.

  5. Burning six people to death in Ashulia.

The tribunal accepted the charges and formally indicted the accused on July 10.

Of the accused, Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan remain absconding, while former Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun is in custody. Notably, on the day of his indictment, Mamun admitted involvement in crimes against humanity and sought to testify as a witness.

Security Heightened Nationwide

With tensions running high and several recent incidents of arson and explosions reported nationwide, authorities are taking extensive precautions to ensure security around the verdict. BGB has also been deployed in Dhaka and surrounding districts as part of wider security measures.

The verdict is expected to be one of the most significant rulings in the aftermath of the July uprising and is being closely monitored both domestically and internationally.

END/SMA/AJ