The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh has issued arrest warrants for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 45 senior leaders of the Awami League, citing their alleged involvement in crimes against humanity during the student-led uprising against her government in July and August.
The tribunal, headed by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, has directed authorities to present Hasina and the other accused before the court by November 18, according to chief prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam.
Prominent figures named in the warrants include former ministers Obaidul Quader, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, Hasan Mahmud, and Anisul Huq.
The order was issued after reviewing over 60 complaints, which accuse Hasina and her associates of serious crimes, including genocide. Investigations into these allegations are already underway, led by the ICT’s investigation agency and prosecution team.
The tribunal has also sought Interpol’s assistance to locate and extradite fugitives, including Hasina, who may be residing abroad.
Bangladesh’s interim government’s foreign affairs advisor, Mohammed Touhid Hossain, acknowledged the potential diplomatic complexities of seeking Hasina’s extradition, especially given her current residence in India.
Hasina resigned as Prime Minister on August 5 and fled to India amid widespread protests over a controversial government job quota system. Following her resignation, a caretaker government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, assumed power.
(Inputs from ANI)