Dhaka: The Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), Md Aminul Islam, has reiterated his commitment to ensuring a transparent and impartial trial in cases filed over crimes committed during the July Mass Uprising. 'The families of the July martyrs expect justice in the same way I do. We are working hard to ensure punishment in every case. We have carried out every stage of the investigation and trial process with transparency and impartiality,' he said while talking to BSS.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ICT chief prosecutor expressed deep sympathy for every family affected by the July Mass Uprising, noting his personal involvement in the movement and his understanding of the grief experienced by the families. He emphasized that the tribunal was established to ensure justice and that proceedings are conducted with dedication, transparency, and professionalism.
Both the International Crimes Tribunal and the prosecution are dedicated to delivering justice, with legal facilities provided for the accused and priority given to the testimonies and evidence from victim families. Aminul highlighted that verdicts have been delivered in five cases, including one against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, while a case against Jatiya Samajtantrik Dal (JSD) President Hasanul Haque Inu is awaiting judgment.
Aminul disclosed that 22 cases are under trial, with ongoing daily proceedings, and investigations are continuing in 31 cases. To date, 105 cases have been formally accepted as complaints, and approximately 450 more complaints are under review for investigation.
He acknowledged the challenges in handling cases involving influential figures in society, from police and administration to politics and journalism, but assured progress in investigations and trials.
In response to concerns about families not receiving case progress updates, Aminul stated that he has organized public hearings for families to engage directly with the prosecution. No families have expressed dissatisfaction with the justice process so far.
Regular trial proceedings are ongoing, with daily court sessions and a team of 19 prosecutors and 24 investigation officers. Aminul emphasized the importance of balancing timely trials with thoroughness to avoid injustice or undue delays, ensuring each case is tried through a lawful process.