Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death by Bangladesh Tribunal for Crimes Against Humanity Linked to 2024 Protests

Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death for Crimes Against Humanity in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has entered a period of deep political turmoil after the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka handed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina a death sentence for crimes against humanity related to the violent crackdown during the 2024 student-led uprising. The ruling, delivered under extraordinary security arrangements, has sharply escalated tensions ahead of the national elections expected early next year.

Tribunal Holds Hasina Responsible for Protest Deaths

The tribunal concluded that Hasina authorised or failed to prevent lethal action during the mass protests that forced her resignation in August 2024. Tried in absentia , Hasina has lived in exile in India since stepping down. Citing UN estimates that over 1,400 people were killed—mostly due to gunfire by security forces—prosecutors described her as the primary architect of the state response.

Other Convictions and Asset Seizures

Former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal was also sentenced to death, while former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun , now an approver, received a reduced term. The tribunal ordered the confiscation of all movable and immovable assets belonging to Hasina and Kamal, holding the leadership accountable for deliberate inaction and direct command responsibility.

Political Backlash and Allegations of Bias

Hasina rejected the verdict as a politically motivated judgment delivered by an unelected interim administration. Calling the trial a “ kangaroo court ,” she challenged authorities to submit the case before an international tribunal. Nationwide security has been tightened amid rising protests, sporadic explosions and fears of retaliatory violence.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death for crimes against humanity in 2024 protest crackdown.

• UN estimates: 1,400 deaths during the uprising.

• Co-accused: Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal (death sentence), Mamun (reduced sentence).

• Hasina tried in absentia while exiled in India.

Diplomatic and Regional Implications

The verdict places New Delhi in a sensitive position as calls grow in Bangladesh for Hasina’s extradition—a move considered unlikely due to geopolitical complexity. With potential Supreme Court appeals and rising public anger, the development marks a watershed moment that may redefine Bangladesh’s political trajectory.