Dhaka, Bangladesh: The capital city of Bangladesh has turned into a tense stronghold after the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) delivered a crucial verdict against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday. The streets of Dhaka have witnessed fresh waves of arson, explosions, and violent clashes reminiscent of the deadly 2024 student-led uprising that claimed over 500 lives and injured hundreds more.
In the days leading up to the ICT’s decision scheduled for November 17, Dhaka has been placed under tight security. Thousands of police and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel have been deployed across the city as the Awami League, Hasina’s party, called for a citywide lockdown. Several checkpoints have been established at Dhaka’s entry points, with public transport and private vehicles undergoing strict inspection.
According to local reports, traffic volume in Dhaka has dropped to less than half its usual level, leaving once-busy roads eerily silent. The ICT, which is set to rule on multiple crimes against humanity charges against Hasina and her senior aides, has heightened its own security as tensions escalate. The former premier, who fled to India in August 2024, faces allegations of conspiracy, murder, and incitement of violence.
Dhaka Comes to a Halt Amid Fresh Violence and Fear
As reported by The Daily Star, the fresh wave of political unrest has crippled daily life in Dhaka. The violent clashes, including crude bomb and arson attacks, have spread to other major cities such as Brahmanbaria and Gazipur. The government has accused supporters of the Awami League of instigating the unrest to destabilize the interim administration.
In Brahmanbaria, a Grameen Bank branch—founded by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, the current interim leader of Bangladesh—was set ablaze, destroying documents and furniture. Meanwhile, several buses and vehicles were torched in crowded areas, including Markets and highways connecting Dhaka to Mymensingh. Miscreants also attacked a rail coach in Tejgaon, Dhaka.
At least 17 explosions were reported across the city, including near Dhaka University, injuring three people. Targets included a shopping mall and a screening venue for a documentary film. Dhaka police confirmed that 44 Awami League members had been detained since Tuesday, with 29 additional arrests made in Narayanganj.
Authorities also discovered a large cache of petrol and improvised bombs in a house near the city. Security forces, including BGB troops, now guard key installations such as Dhaka High Court and the ICT complex.
Charges Against Sheikh Hasina: A Breakdown of the Allegations
The latest surge in political violence comes as Bangladesh braces for national elections in early 2026. Sheikh Hasina’s recent interviews with Indian media outlets have sparked outrage within Bangladesh, prompting the interim government to summon India’s Deputy High Commissioner in Dhaka.
Diplomatic relations between India and Bangladesh have reached their lowest point since Hasina’s ouster. In December 2024, the Yunus-led government even sought her extradition from India, though New Delhi has yet to respond.
The charges against Hasina revolve around her alleged role in the 2024 student uprising that toppled her government. The International Crimes Tribunal has filed five major charges accusing her of orchestrating systematic violence against unarmed protesters.
| Charge No. | Nature of Allegation | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Crimes Against Humanity | Involvement in murder, torture, and inhumane acts against civilians during the 2024 protests. |
| 2 | Extermination Orders | Accused of ordering lethal action against student protesters. |
| 3 | Murder of Student Leader | Linked to the killing of Abu Sayed, a student activist near Rangpur University. |
| 4 | Provocative Statements | Charged with making inflammatory remarks that incited further unrest. |
| 5 | Extrajudicial Killings | Allegedly ordered security forces to shoot six unarmed protesters in Chankharpul, Dhaka in August 2024. |
These charges are viewed as some of the most politically sensitive in Bangladesh’s modern history. The ICT’s verdict on November 17 could reshape the country’s political landscape and determine Hasina’s legacy as both a long-serving leader and a deeply controversial figure.
As Bangladesh holds its breath for the tribunal’s final decision, the atmosphere in Dhaka remains charged with uncertainty, fear, and the haunting memories of the 2024 bloodshed. With streets deserted and tensions mounting, the country stands on the brink of another potential political crisis.
For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest World on thefoxdaily.com.
COMMENTS 0