Dhaka: A Dhaka court is set to pronounce its judgment today in a case involving 17 individuals, including ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, and niece Tulip Siddique. The case concerns alleged irregularities in the allocation of a 10-katha plot within the RAJUK Purbachal New Town Project. The proceedings at Dhaka Special Judge Court-4 are scheduled to commence at 10:30 am.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Judge Robiul Alam had previously slated December 1 as the date for the judgment after both the prosecution and defense concluded their arguments on November 25. In preparation for the judgment announcement, additional security personnel have been deployed around the court.
On November 30, Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) public prosecutor Mir Ahammed Salam expressed confidence in securing maximum punishment for the accused, stating that the allegations had been successfully proven. The court had earlier set November 25 for arguments, during which Khurshid Alam, one of the accused, pleaded not guilty. The remaining 16 accused have been tried in absentia as they are absconding.
The testimony phase concluded on November 18 when the investigation officer and ACC assistant director Afnan Jannat Keya completed her deposition. A total of 32 prosecution witnesses testified in the case.
The case was initially filed by ACC Deputy Director Md Salahuddin on January 13, 2025, against 15 individuals, including Sheikh Hasina, Sheikh Rehana, and Tulip Siddique. The investigation officer later submitted a charge sheet against 17 accused on March 10. The list of other accused includes former state minister for Housing and Public Works Sharif Ahmed and several former RAJUK officials.
Charges in related cases were framed on July 31 by Dhaka Special Judge Court-4 and Dhaka Special Judge Court-5, involving similar allegations.