Overview:
Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia for crimes against humanity linked to her role in the deadly July–August 2024 student protests. Hasina, daughter of Bangladesh’s founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, fled to India following widespread unrest and remains in self-imposed exile under protection. The tribunal also sentenced other officials, sparking debate over political motivations and due process. During her decades-long political career, Hasina faced allegations of authoritarian governance, human rights abuses, election irregularities, and media suppression. Bangladesh continues to grapple with political instability and security concerns, with the interim government managing rising tensions and minority protections. The verdict is appealable to the Supreme Court, and India has yet to respond to extradition requests. Analysts warn that the country’s transition remains fragile as it navigates the aftermath of mass protests and the legacy of Hasina’s tenure.
New Delhi / Dhaka — November 17, 2025
Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT-1) has sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia, finding her guilty of crimes against humanity for her alleged role in the deadly crackdown on student-led protests in 2024. The verdict comes more than a year after violent unrest erupted across the country, leading to her resignation and self-imposed exile in India.
The tribunal’s decision has sparked international attention, with critics calling the trial politically motivated. Hasina, who fled Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, remains in New Delhi under protection, and India has not indicated whether it will extradite her.
Who Is Sheikh Hasina?
Sheikh Hasina is Bangladesh’s longest-serving prime minister and a central figure in the country’s political history. She is the daughter of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Bangladesh’s founding father and first president, who was assassinated in 1975. Following her father’s assassination, Hasina and her sister, Sheikh Rehana, went into exile in India.
During her years abroad, Hasina became active in the Awami League, the party her father founded. She was elected party president in absentia in 1981 and returned to Bangladesh later that year. After opposing authoritarian rule under military leader Hussain Muhammad Ershad, Hasina eventually became prime minister in 1996. She served from 1996 to 2001 and again from 2009 until her resignation in 2024 amid mass protests.
Controversies During Her Tenure
Sheikh Hasina’s long political career was marked by both achievements and controversy. Key allegations include:
- Human Rights Violations: Hasina’s administration faced accusations of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and targeting political opponents through security forces, particularly the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB).
- Election Irregularities: Critics have alleged electoral manipulation during the 2014, 2018, and 2024 general elections, which opposition parties boycotted. International observers expressed concern over voting irregularities.
- Suppression of Opposition and Media: Opposition figures were often arrested or harassed. Laws such as the Digital Security Act were reportedly used to detain journalists and critics, limiting media freedom.
The Death Sentence
On November 17, 2025, ICT-1 convicted Hasina on three counts related to crimes against humanity. The charges stemmed from her alleged role in ordering security forces to use lethal measures, including helicopters and other weapons, during the July–August 2024 student protests, which UN estimates suggest caused up to 1,400 deaths.
The tribunal also sentenced former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death and IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun to five years in prison. Hasina’s lawyers have denounced the verdict as politically motivated, emphasizing that she was tried in absentia and maintains her innocence. The death sentence will take effect only if she is arrested.
The verdict is appealable to the Bangladesh Supreme Court, which Hasina’s legal team is expected to pursue.
Hasina’s Exile in India
Since fleeing Bangladesh, Hasina has remained in self-imposed exile in New Delhi. The interim Bangladeshi government requested her extradition, but India has not responded. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed, has stated that she has no plans to return until a legitimate government is in place.
Bangladesh’s Current Political Climate
Following Hasina’s resignation, Bangladesh has experienced increased political instability. The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, has faced the challenge of restoring order while investigating alleged abuses during Hasina’s tenure.
- Political Restrictions: Some activities of the Awami League have been restricted, limiting the party’s operations amid ongoing investigations.
- Threats to Minorities: Reports indicate heightened vulnerability for Hindu minorities and opposition supporters. Authorities are implementing measures to manage unrest and secure affected communities.
Observers warn that Bangladesh’s transition remains fragile, with concerns about security sector reform and the protection of human rights.
References & Further Reading
- Bangladesh sentences former prime minister Sheikh Hasina to death – Financial Times
- Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Sentenced to Death – TIME
- Sheikh Hasina verdict coverage – Times of India
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