Sheikh Hasina, once one of South Asia’s most powerful political figures, now stands at the centre of one of the most dramatic legal moments in Bangladesh’s history. After decades of dominating national politics, the former prime minister has been sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh on charges of crimes against humanity. The verdict, delivered in her absence, has triggered intense debate across the region and raised difficult questions about leadership, accountability, and the future of Bangladesh.
A Dominant and Controversial Leader
For much of the last two decades, Sheikh Hasina’s name was synonymous with political stability and development. She led Bangladesh through rapid economic growth, major infrastructure projects, and an assertive foreign policy. Supporters hailed her as a visionary who transformed the country’s global image.
But her tenure was also marked by accusations of authoritarian rule. Opposition parties, activists, and critics frequently accused her government of suppressing dissent, misusing legal institutions, and centralizing power. These tensions erupted violently in mid-2024, becoming the turning point that eventually led to her downfall.
The 2024 Student Uprising
The crisis began with widespread student protests that spread across Bangladesh during July and August 2024. What started as a youth-led movement soon matured into a national uprising, driven by frustration over political restrictions and growing demands for accountable governance.
According to the prosecution’s case, the government’s response under Hasina’s leadership was excessively forceful. Security forces were alleged to have used gunfire, heavy weapons, and brutal tactics to silence demonstrations. Hundreds were reportedly killed, thousands injured, and several districts witnessed extreme violence as clashes intensified.
Trial in Absentia and the Charges
By the time formal charges were filed, Hasina had already left the country and taken refuge in India. Her trial proceeded in absentia under a three-member bench of the International Crimes Tribunal.
The court examined hundreds of pages of documents, witness testimonies, and photographs. Five major charges were considered, including:
-
Killings and attempted killings
-
Conspiracy to commit violence
-
Incitement through public statements
-
Aiding and abetting crimes
-
Failure to prevent atrocities despite holding supreme authority
One of the most significant accusations involved her alleged remarks during a press conference where she allegedly referred to protesting students as “descendants of traitors.” Prosecutors argued this statement intensified violence and fueled hostility on the ground.
Key Incidents Highlighted in the Verdict
The tribunal focused on several major incidents:
-
The killing of a student named Abu Sayed at Begum Rokeya University.
-
The murder of six civilians in the Chankharpul area of Dhaka.
-
The fatal shooting of five people in Ashulia, followed by the burning of their bodies.
-
A case of a protester allegedly being burned alive, described as one of the most shocking crimes in the trial.
Based on these findings, the tribunal concluded that Hasina bore direct command responsibility. Two charges resulted in the death penalty, while another earned her a life sentence.
Co-Accused and Their Sentences
Hasina was not the only political figure on trial.
-
Former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal also received the death penalty.
-
Former Police Chief Abdullah Al Mamun, who turned state witness, received a reduced sentence of five years.
Reactions and Broader Impact
In exile, Hasina has condemned the verdict, calling it politically motivated and a misuse of judicial power. Her party supporters echo this, arguing that the trial was shaped by political rivalry rather than purely legal principles.
Inside Bangladesh, the reaction is sharply divided. Many families of victims have welcomed the judgment as long-delayed justice, while others fear that the decision could deepen political instability.
The ruling has also reopened discussions about:
-
Civil-military balance in Bangladeshi politics
-
The role of international bodies in domestic trials
-
The political future of the Awami League without its longtime leader
What This Means for Bangladesh’s Future
The sentencing of a former prime minister is an unprecedented moment for the country. Regardless of whether Hasina returns to appeal the verdict, the political landscape of Bangladesh has already changed forever.
Her long rule, once considered unshakeable, has ended in turmoil and legal confrontation. The legacy she leaves behind is complex — a blend of economic progress, strong leadership, public resistance, and now a historic conviction.
The coming years will determine whether Bangladesh moves toward healing and accountability or remains entangled in political division. For now, the story of Sheikh Hasina stands as a defining chapter in the nation’s struggle between power, democracy, and justice.
FAQs on Sheikh Hasina
1. Who is Sheikh Hasina?
Sheikh Hasina is the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh and a major political figure who led the nation for several years. She is the daughter of Bangladesh’s founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
2. Why was Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death?
Sheikh Hasina was sentenced to death by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal for crimes against humanity related to the 2024 student uprising, where large-scale violence and multiple killings were reported.
3. What were the main charges against Sheikh Hasina?
The charges included murder, attempted murder, conspiracy, incitement through public statements, aiding violence, and failing to stop atrocities while holding supreme authority.
4. Was Sheikh Hasina present during the trial?
No. Sheikh Hasina was tried in absentia as she has been living in exile in India since August 2024, after leaving Bangladesh amid the political crisis.
5. Who else was convicted along with Sheikh Hasina?
Former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal received the death penalty, while former police chief Abdullah Al Mamun was given a reduced sentence after turning state witness.
6. What incidents were highlighted in the verdict against Sheikh Hasina?
Key incidents included the killing of students in Rangpur, the murder of six people in Chankharpul, and the burning of bodies in Ashulia during the 2024 protests.
7. What is Sheikh Hasina’s response to the verdict?
From exile, Sheikh Hasina has called the verdict politically motivated and biased, stating that the charges are part of a conspiracy against her and her party.
8. How will the verdict impact Bangladesh?
The sentencing of Sheikh Hasina is expected to reshape Bangladesh’s political landscape, potentially increasing polarization while also raising questions about justice, accountability, and future leadership.
“Hi, I’m Rekha Choudhary — a content writer and yoga instructor. Welcome to my news website, Desh News Hub
, a platform that covers a wide range of categories including health, lifestyle, education, technology, and current affairs. Through my work, I strive to inspire mindful living while keeping readers informed with authentic and insightful updates.”