Sheikh Hasina Calls for Action Against Vandalism

Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, addressed the nation on Tuesday, urging action against those responsible for the recent deaths and vandalism during protests. Over 300 people lost their lives in July's demonstrations. Hasina's statement followed a court's order to investigate her role in the tragic events.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called for action against those involved in last month's killings and vandalism in the nation. This marks her first public comment since violent protests forced her to flee to India.

The demonstrations, which initially started over employment quota concerns, escalated into a movement to overthrow Hasina, resulting in around 300 deaths.

Hasina made her statement via X, issued through her son, after a court ordered an investigation into her role in the death of a grocery shop owner during the protests. Many lives were lost "in the name of revolution" in July, she said.

"I demand that those involved in these killings and vandalism be properly investigated and the culprits be identified and punished accordingly," she declared.

Other government officials also face criminal charges. Former Law Minister Anisul Huq and Hasina's adviser Salman F Rahman were arrested on charges of instigating the murder of two individuals, according to police reports.

Amir Hamza filed a case against Hasina, which was accepted by Dhaka's chief metropolitan magistrate's court. The case implicates other high-profile figures, including Obaidul Quader of the Awami League party and former Interior Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal.

Hamza alleged grocer Abu Saeed was fatally shot by police during the protests. Though unrelated to Saeed, Hamza pursued the case as Saeed's family lacked the means.

"I am the first ordinary citizen who showed the courage to take this legal step against Sheikh Hasina for her crimes," Hamza said to Reuters.

Hasina has stated she will return to Bangladesh once an election date is set.