Delhi, AYT News | A Bangladeshi court has ordered the arrest of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India in August following mass protests that led to her ousting. Hasina, 77, is accused of "crimes against humanity" for her alleged role in the violent suppression of demonstrations that resulted in hundreds of deaths. The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) issued the warrant, requiring her presence in court by November 18. The ICT also issued arrest warrants for 45 others, including former government ministers who fled the country.
Bloodiest Period Since Independence
The summer violence, sparked by student-led protests against government job quotas, claimed over 1,000 lives, making it the bloodiest period in Bangladesh's history since its 1971 independence.
India Sheltering Hasina Sparks Tensions
Hasina's continued presence in India, where she is currently at a military airbase near Delhi, has strained relations between Dhaka and Delhi. Many Bangladeshis are outraged by India's decision to shelter Hasina, despite a bilateral extradition treaty between the two nations.
However, the treaty includes a clause allowing extradition refusal if the offense is deemed "political."
Tribunal Under Fire
The ICT, established by Hasina's government in 2010 to investigate war atrocities, has faced criticism for procedural shortcomings and being used to eliminate political opponents. Critics argue the reconstituted tribunal lacks judges with international law experience.
Son Defends Hasina
Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed, maintains his mother's innocence. "My mother has done nothing wrong," he told Reuters last month. The development marks a significant turn in Bangladesh's ongoing political turmoil.