New Delhi: A tribunal established by Bangladeshs former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has launched an investigation into mass murder allegations against her, as reported by AFP on Monday. This development marks an important turn of events in the political turmoil surrounding Hasinas recent tenure.Context of the probesThe investigations focus on the violent unrest that occurred before Hasinas departure from Bangladesh. Over 450 people reportedly lost their lives, many due to police action, during a month-long series of student protests against her 15-year rule. Following these protests, Hasina resigned and fled to India on August 5.Ataur Rahman, Deputy Director of the tribunals investigation cell, revealed that preliminary evidence is currently being gathered. “The cases are related to mass murder,” Rahman stated, emphasizing that the probes were initiated by private individuals. Several of Hasinas former top aides have also been implicated.Scope of investigationsThe tribunal is examining violence in and around Dhaka, including Mirpur, Munshiganj, and Savar. Additionally, local police units across Bangladesh have filed at least 15 cases against Hasina. These cases include allegations of murder and crimes against humanity, some of which date back prior to the recent unrest.The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), established by Hasina in 2010, investigates atrocities from Bangladeshs liberation war against Pakistan. Under Hasinas leadership, the ICT has sentenced over 100 individuals to death, including several political opponents. However, the ICT has faced criticism from human rights groups for alleged breaches of international conventions and for failing to ensure fair trials.UN report emphasises human rights violationsOn Friday, the United Nations released a report indicating excessive force used by Bangladeshi security forces during the student-led protests. The UN human rights offices preliminary report pointed to alleged violations, including extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, and torture, warranting further independent investigation.
