The investigation agency of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has filed its draft probe report accusing ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina and others of responsibility for the deaths of around 60 people during the May 5, 2013, crackdown on a Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh rally at the capital's Shapla Chattar.
ICT Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam confirmed the development, stating that the report will undergo a final review and verification to ensure a transparent trial based on a sound investigation report.
The draft report names deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina, the former inspector general of police, the former director general of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and several others as accused. The list of accused may be revised after the verification process is completed.
The tribunal's investigation agency has identified 58 of the 61 victims of the government crackdown carried out in connection with the Hefazat-e-Islam rally across the country. The draft report was reviewed with top leaders of Hefazat-e-Islam, who were present at the press briefing.
The significance of this development lies in the potential for accountability and justice for the victims of the 2013 crackdown, which remains a contentious issue in Bangladesh's political history.
