Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death for ‘Crimes Against Humanity’; Calls Verdict ‘Rigged’

International Crimes Tribunal finds former Bangladesh PM guilty in 2024 student protest crackdown; Dhaka on high alert

Undercover Editor News | Editoor- Mahesh Rathod
Dhaka/New Delhi, November 17, 2025

In a historic and deeply polarising judgment, Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal-1 (ICT) on Monday sentenced ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death after finding her guilty of crimes against humanity, including mass killings, torture, and targeted attacks on student protesters during the 2024 nationwide agitation that toppled her government.

The tribunal also pronounced death sentences for former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. All three leaders were tried in absentia, with Hasina currently in exile in New Delhi since August 2024.

Authorities in Dhaka tightened security across the capital ahead of the verdict, deploying paramilitary forces, riot police, and border guards as tensions soared amid fears of mass unrest. The interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus issued a high-alert directive early Monday, anticipating protests from Awami League loyalists.

Five Major Charges Against Sheikh Hasina

According to the tribunal, Hasina and her top aides were convicted on five key counts, including:

• Orchestrating mass killings of unarmed student protesters in Dhaka.
• Authorising helicopters and drones to fire on civilian crowds.
• The murder of activist Abu Sayed, a key organiser of the student movement.
• Incineration of bodies in Ashulia to destroy evidence.
• Coordinated killings at Chankharpul, a central protest site in the capital.

The tribunal concluded that the crackdown was “systematic, planned, and executed under direct orders from the highest political leadership.”

Hasina strongly denies all charges, calling them “politically motivated” and claiming the verdict has been “rigged by an illegal government.”

Political Reactions & Rising Tensions

The verdict has sharply divided Bangladesh’s political and social landscape.

Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed, speaking from exile, warned that Awami League workers would block the 2026 national election if the ban on the party is not lifted. He further claimed the ruling was “the darkest day in Bangladesh’s judicial history.”

Awami League supporters have already called for nationwide strikes and hartals. The party also alleges that “Hindus are in danger” under the interim administration—claims the government denies.

Meanwhile, Dhaka streets remain heavily fortified. Eyewitnesses described checkpoints, road blockades, and drone surveillance around the tribunal complex.

Trial in Absentia & International Implications

The sentencing of a former Bangladeshi prime minister in absentia is unprecedented. Legal experts say the verdict will likely draw global attention and may trigger diplomatic tensions, especially with India, where Hasina has been residing.

Human rights bodies have urged the government to maintain restraint, fearing a repeat of violence that marred the 2024 student uprising.

What Happens Next?

The interim government has appealed for calm, asserting that “justice has followed due process.” However, with political tempers flaring and Awami League cadres mobilising, Bangladesh appears headed for a period of uncertainty.

The verdict marks a dramatic turning point for the country, setting the stage for a prolonged political showdown—one that may shape the nation’s future well beyond 2026.