The legal challenges faced by Bangladeshs former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina have reached a critical point, with the number of cases against her surpassing 100, according to The Hindu. These cases involve a spectrum of serious charges, including murder and crimes against humanity, marking a significant escalation in the legal proceedings following her departure from power.The Initial Charges and Government DownfallSheikh Hasinas political troubles began shortly after her government, led by the Bangladesh Awami League, was overthrown on August 5, 2024, amid massive student-led protests. The first case against her was filed just days later on August 13 in Dhaka. The latest, marking the 100th case, was registered on August 29 at the International Crimes Tribunal.Broad Scope of Legal AllegationsThe cases against Hasina include charges not only against her but also against several former ministers, Members of Parliament, and journalists. The charges vary from genocide to crimes against humanity, with eight cases being referred to the International Crimes Tribunal and at least 92 others filed at various police stations across the country. One case, in particular, involves allegations of abduction and enforced disappearance, highlighting the severe nature of the accusations.Recent Legal DevelopmentsOn August 29, Sheikh Hasina faced fresh charges of genocide and crimes against humanity at the International Crimes Tribunal. These charges are connected to the death of Nasib Hasan Riyan, a 17-year-old student who was killed during an anti-discrimination protest on August 5. The case was filed by Supreme Court lawyer Gazi MH Tamim on behalf of Riyans father, naming 53 individuals, including former ministers and journalists, as co-accused.On the same day, Fatema Begum, the widow of a slain labour leader, lodged a case against Hasina and 34 others in Dhaka, while another case was filed by Kismat Ara, whose son died in a separate incident. Additionally, two murder cases were filed at Sreepur Model Police Station, involving the deaths of six people during a clash between Border Guard Bangladesh members and protesters.Ongoing Fallout and International RepercussionsThe aftermath of Sheikh Hasinas resignation and subsequent flight to India on August 5 has been marked by widespread violence, with over 230 deaths reported across Bangladesh. Since the fall of the Awami League government, key figures, including ministers and MPs, have been arrested, while many others have gone into hiding. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, who is leading the interim government, now faces the daunting task of navigating the country through this period of unrest.
