Bangladesh Court Sentences Former PM Sheikh Hasina to Death

DHAKA: Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death in absentia, after finding her guilty of crimes against humanity linked to last year’s violent crackdown on student protests.

According to the tribunal, more than 1,400 people were killed during the 2024 unrest. The court ruled that Hasina ordered the use of force against unarmed demonstrators. Along with the death sentence, she also received a life term on other charges.

Former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan was also sentenced to death, while the former police chief received a five-year jail term.

The 450-page verdict was broadcast live across the country. Security remained on high alert in Dhaka, where several crude bomb explosions were reported a day before the ruling.

Hasina, 78, has been living in India since her removal from office last year and denies all charges, calling the case politically motivated.

Authorities have strengthened security nationwide as tensions rise following the historic judgment.