Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was sentenced to death in absentia by Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for crimes against humanity tied to a violent crackdown on student-led protests in 2024.
Background & Legal Framework
- The ICT in Bangladesh was originally established in 2009 to try war-crimes from the 1971 Liberation War.
- After mass student protests in July-August 2024 against quota issues in public service recruitment, a crackdown reportedly caused up to 1,400 deaths.
- Hasina fled to India in August 2024 as her government collapsed and later faced charges of ordering killings, authorising use of drones/helicopters and failing to prevent violence.
The Verdict & Immediate Outcomes
- On 17 November 2025, the ICT found Sheikh Hasina guilty of crimes against humanity and sentenced her to death.
- Bangladesh’s interim government issued an extradition request to India following the verdict.
- Hasina and her party (the Awami League) claim the trial was politically motivated and biased.
India’s Role & Regional Dimensions
- India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated it “noted” the verdict and emphasised support for Bangladesh’s people (not explicitly the government) — a calibrated approach.
- India continues to provide refuge to Hasina and has not yielded to extradition requests, citing concerns about fairness and political nature of charges.
- The situation affects India-Bangladesh relations, stability in Bengal region, and democratic norms in South Asia.
Challenges & Risks Ahead
- The trial’s legitimacy is questioned by international rights groups over fairness, due process and use of death penalty in absentia.
- The ban on Awami League and exclusion of major parties may affect the credibility of the 2026 elections and Bangladesh’s democratic fabric.
- A leadership vacuum in major parties could lead to political instability, social unrest and governance void.
Challenges & Risks Ahead
- The trial’s legitimacy is questioned by international rights groups over fairness, due process and use of death penalty in absentia.
- The ban on Awami League and exclusion of major parties may affect the credibility of the 2026 elections and Bangladesh’s democratic fabric.
- A leadership vacuum in major parties could lead to political instability, social unrest and governance void.
Conclusion
The sentencing of Sheikh Hasina marks a turning point in Bangladesh’s politics, signalling accountability but also triggering serious questions about rule-of-law, separation of powers and democratic legitimacy. For India and the region, the outcome underscores the importance of inclusive politics, transparent institutions and safeguarding democratic norms.
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