Dhaka, Oct 15 (V7N): The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) is set to commence the trial on Thursday, 17 October, regarding the genocide and crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the student-led movement and mass uprising in July and August this year. Among those named in the cases is former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

Md Tajul Islam, the tribunal's Chief Prosecutor, announced the development while speaking to reporters on 15 October, following a meeting with the new chairman and members of the reconstituted tribunal. The ICT was restructured on Monday, with Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumdar appointed as chairman, and Justice Md Shafiul Alam Mahmud and retired judge Md Mohitul Haq Anam Chowdhury joining as members.

A reception for the newly appointed tribunal officials is scheduled for 16 October, and trial proceedings will begin the following day. According to Islam, the tribunal will prioritize the cases related to the July-August uprising, and several petitions will be submitted on Thursday.

Justice Mortuza and Justice Shafiul were among the 23 additional judges appointed to the High Court on 8 October, taking their oaths the following day. The government had earlier announced reforms to the ICT, including changes to the prosecution team and investigation agency, to expedite trials for crimes against humanity committed during the uprising, which led to the removal of the Hasina-led Awami League government.

Media reports indicate that over 60 complaints have been filed with the ICT's investigation agency, with many implicating Hasina and her party members. Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, who helped oversee the tribunal's reconstitution in consultation with the Supreme Court, expressed confidence that the trial would soon begin, noting that credible evidence had been collected.

Nazrul also revealed plans to amend ICT laws to align them with international standards, including allowing observers from international human rights organizations and providing the accused the option to appoint lawyers from other countries. He added that steps were in place to hold trials for fugitives and to seek the extradition of convicted individuals from countries with which Bangladesh has treaties.

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