Bangladesh Interim Government Investigates Mass Killings: Potential Prosecutions in International Crimes Tribunal

Bangladesh's interim government announced on Wednesday its intention to prosecute those responsible for killings during the recent student-led mass protests against the Sheikh Hasina-led administration. The International Crimes Tribunal will oversee the trials, focusing on events that transpired between July 1 and August 5.

According to Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul, the government has prepared to investigate these incidents under the United Nations' supervision to ensure transparency. The violence, which resulted in over 230 deaths, erupted following the fall of the Hasina government on August 5. The death toll has reached a staggering 560 over three weeks of turmoil originating from protests against a controversial job quota system.

Investigations will ascertain if the killings can be prosecuted as crimes against humanity under the International Criminal Tribunal Act 1973, amended in 2009 and 2013. Nazrul emphasized that all involved, including those who ordered and assisted, will face justice. Provisions have also been made to withdraw false cases filed to harass individuals during the protests.

(With inputs from agencies.)