Dhaka leadership hails verdict against Sheikh Hasina, urges India to deport former PM immediately
Dhaka, Bangladesh: In a dramatic escalation of Bangladesh’s ongoing political and legal crisis, Interim Government Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus on Monday welcomed the court’s landmark verdict sentencing former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for crimes against humanity, asserting that the judgment “reaffirms the fundamental principle that no one is above the law.”
Reacting to the International Crimes Tribunal’s ruling linked to the deadly July–August 2024 unrest, Yunus said in a public statement that the judiciary had spoken “with clarity that will resonate across the nation and beyond.”
“The conviction and punishment reaffirm a fundamental truth — no one is above the law,” Yunus declared. “This verdict delivers justice to thousands who suffered during the unrest.”
Yunus described Bangladesh as standing at a “critical stage of rebuilding democracy” after “years of repression” that had eroded legal and civic institutions. Referring to the alleged command responsibility attributed to Hasina in the violent crackdown, he noted:
“The crimes in question — ordering lethal force against youth and children — violated our laws and the essential bond between government and citizens.”
He highlighted the 1,400 lives lost, saying those victims were “not just statistics, but students, parents and citizens whose stories unfolded throughout months of testimony.”
“This judgment recognises their pain and ensures accountability in our justice system,” he added.
Calling for national healing, Yunus said the road ahead required rebuilding trust between institutions and the people. “Understanding why citizens risk everything for genuine representation — and rebuilding systems worthy of that trust — is now essential,” he said.
Meanwhile, in a strong diplomatic message, the Bangladesh Foreign Ministry formally requested India to immediately deport both Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who are reported to be absconding.
In its statement, the ministry said:
“No country should shelter individuals convicted of crimes against humanity. Doing so would be an act of intolerance and disregard for justice.” Bangladesh reminded India of its obligations under the existing bilateral extradition treaty, asserting that handing over the convicted individuals is India’s “mandatory duty.”
The political fallout of the landmark ruling is expected to further intensify regional diplomatic engagements in the coming days.
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