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The political landscape of Bangladesh is currently embroiled in a high-stakes drama as the newly appointed administration faces mounting public pressure to hold former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina accountable for alleged crimes against humanity. The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), a body established in 2010 to investigate atrocities during the 1971 independence war from Pakistan, has initiated proceedings against Hasina, marking a significant turn in the political narrative.
The ICT's investigation centers around the violent unrest that transpired in the weeks preceding the fall of the government. Hasina, accused of being the 'main perpetrator' in the deaths of hundreds of protesters, faces serious charges of genocide and crimes against humanity. These charges pertain to the period between July 15 and August 5, a time when the country was in turmoil. Adding weight to the allegations, Bangladesh has taken concrete steps to demonstrate its seriousness in pursuing justice, revoking Hasina's diplomatic passport and preparing to issue an arrest warrant.
The path towards Hasina's return to Bangladesh for trial hinges on a bilateral extradition treaty signed in 2013 between Bangladesh and India. This treaty, however, contains a caveat that could potentially complicate matters. A clause within the agreement allows for extradition to be refused if the offense is deemed to be of a 'political character.' This clause provides a potential avenue for Hasina to challenge any extradition attempts, raising the stakes in the ongoing legal battle.
Mohammad Tajul Islam, the chief prosecutor of the ICT, has publicly stated the tribunal's intent to initiate legal procedures to bring Hasina back to Bangladesh. He emphasized the existence of the extradition treaty and the tribunal's determination to hold Hasina accountable for her alleged role in the massacres. This declaration signals a clear intention by the Bangladesh government to pursue justice, regardless of the political implications.
While Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, has attempted to quell public anxiety by asserting that his mother has not sought asylum and plans to return to Bangladesh, the ICT's actions demonstrate a resolute commitment to bring Hasina to justice. The unfolding legal drama raises crucial questions about the nature of justice, the balance of power, and the role of international law in addressing historical wrongs.
Source: Sheikh Hasina returning to Bangladesh? War crimes tribunal to seek extradition