Indemnity Ordinance Shields Bangladesh's 'July Warriors'

Bangladesh's interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, approved an ordinance granting indemnity to demonstrators who overthrew Sheikh Hasina's government in 2024. Dubbed the 'July revolutionists,' these protesters aimed for political resistance. The ordinance precludes prosecution for their actions, except in cases involving murder.

In a significant political move, Bangladesh's interim administration, under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus, has sanctioned an ordinance offering legal protection to protesters involved in the August 2024 upheaval that displaced Sheikh Hasina's Awami League government.

Law Adviser Asif Nazrul, addressing the media, declared that participants of the movement, often referred to as 'July revolutionists,' will receive indemnity for their politically motivated actions. This is encapsulated in the 'July Mass Uprising Protection and Accountability Ordinance,' aimed at retaining democratic governance.

While the ordinance prevents new legal actions against these figures, Nazrul emphasized that it would not shield individuals who committed murders for personal gains during the unrest. The drafting followed a directive from an inter-ministerial meeting pushing for swift legislative action.

(With inputs from agencies.)