Dhaka: The two International Crimes Tribunals (ICTs) are on the verge of announcing their judgments in two additional cases related to crimes against humanity that took place during the July Mass Uprising in 2024. These upcoming rulings follow the tribunals' previous delivery of verdicts in six high-profile cases concerning the same uprising.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the verdict in the case against seven fugitive accused, including Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, is anticipated shortly. The proceedings, which included extensive hearings and arguments from both the prosecution and defense, have concluded. The three-member International Crimes Tribunal-2, led by Justice Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, is now set to deliver its decision.
The accused in this case include Awami League Joint General Secretary A F M Bahauddin Nasim, former State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat, Jubo League Chairman Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, General Secretary Mainul Hossain Khan Nikhil, Chhatra League President Saddam Hossain, and General Secretary Sheikh Wali Asif Enan. All are currently at large.
In another case, the second tribunal is also awaiting a verdict concerning four individuals, including Awami League Joint General Secretary Mahbubul Alam Hanif. This case relates to the killing of six people in Kushtia during the Mass Uprising. The other accused include Kushtia district Awami League President Sadar Uddin Khan, General Secretary Azgar Ali, and city Awami League General Secretary Ataur Rahman Ata, all of whom are also absconding.
So far, the two tribunals have sentenced 16 individuals to death and 11 to life imprisonment in verdicts from six crimes against humanity cases. Other accused have received varying prison terms.
Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam emphasized the progress made, stating to BSS that justice for the victims of the July 2024 Mass Uprising has been significantly advanced with the six verdicts delivered so far. He noted, "Delivering verdicts in six cases within two years is certainly exemplary. Besides, two more cases are now awaiting verdicts after completion of hearings. We expect the maximum punishment for the perpetrators."