Dhaka, Bangladesh — Security in Bangladesh’s capital has tightened dramatically as authorities prepare for the International Crimes Tribunal-Bangladesh (ICT-BD) verdict against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has issued a shoot-at-sight order, warning that anyone showing “intent to kill” during protests will be met with lethal force.
Sheikh Hasina Crimes Against Humanity Case: Background and Charges
- Sheikh Hasina is being tried in absentia on charges of murder, torture, and crimes against humanity, linked to the July–August 2024 student uprising.
- Prosecutors allege Hasina commanded security forces to use excessive force, including drones and helicopters, against protesters.
- The prosecution is seeking the death penalty and seizure of the former leader’s assets for compensation to victims’ families.
- Under ICT-BD rules, she may appeal only if she surrenders or is arrested within 30 days of conviction.
Dhaka Security Alert: Shoot-at-Sight Order and Nationwide Deployment
- DMP Commissioner S.M. Sazzat Ali ordered police to “shoot those who show intent to kill,” specifically mentioning arsonists and crude bomb throwers.
- Authorities claim the directive is legally supported under Bangladesh’s existing security laws.
- Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been deployed across Dhaka and several districts.
- Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), special police units, and intelligence agencies are patrolling high-risk zones.
- Armoured vehicles and barricades have been set up near government buildings, major intersections, and the tribunal complex.
Bangladesh on Tension: Arson, Blasts, and Shutdown Calls Intensify
- In the past week, Dhaka has witnessed multiple pre-dawn crude bomb blasts and bus arson attacks.
- A bus driver died after his vehicle was torched while he was sleeping inside, heightening fears of escalating violence.
- Several explosions targeted institutions linked to the interim government, including branches of Grameen Bank.
- Opposition groups and Hasina’s supporters have called for a nationwide shutdown, raising the likelihood of widespread disruption.
Sheikh Hasina’s Defence: Claims of Political Targeting and Unfair Trial
- Sheikh Hasina has dismissed the charges as politically motivated, calling the tribunal a “kangaroo court.”
- She insists she never ordered violence against unarmed civilians and that the trial lacks fair representation since she is outside the country.
- Hasina fled to India on August 5, 2024, shortly after violent clashes peaked.
Human Rights Concerns Ahead of the Hasina Verdict
- Rights groups have raised alarms over the shoot-at-sight order, warning it may lead to misuse of power against civilians.
- Critics also question the government’s plan to broadcast only selected portions of the verdict, calling it a transparency risk.
- International observers say the judgment may deepen Bangladesh’s political polarization.
What to Watch: Sheikh Hasina Verdict Day Timeline
- Announcement of Verdict — Whether the tribunal opts for the death penalty or life sentence.
- Immediate Public Reaction — Potential protests, clashes, or shutdown impacts across major cities.
- Legal Aftermath — Whether Hasina attempts to appeal by surrendering or remains abroad.
- Government Measures — Further security actions, emergency orders, or curfew-like restrictions.
