A case has been filed against former prime minister Sheikh Hasina in the International Criminal Court (ICC) for alleged crimes against humanity and genocide, following the anti-discrimination student and public protests held in July and August.
Barrister Md Ashraful Arefin, from the London-based Three Bolt Court Chambers, lodged the complaint on 28 October.
The complaint requests an independent investigation into Hasina and associated officials, alongside a call for the issuance of arrest warrants for key suspects. The case, targeting Hasina, former ministers, and influential officials of the previous government, demands a thorough inquiry into alleged crimes against humanity.
At a press conference held at the London-Bangla Press Club on 1 November, Barrister Ashraful Arefin confirmed the filing, elaborating that 70 individuals, including Hasina, her cabinet members, and officials from various affiliated organisations, have been named in the complaint.
He stated, “I filed this case on 28 October. Sheikh Hasina, along with members of her cabinet and other associated organisations, stand accused.” Arefin further remarked on how the protests had begun with students demanding reform of the quota system but were met with violence. “The world witnessed how Abu Saeed was shot by the police. We are presenting these crimes against humanity.”
During the protests, the then-government deployed police, RAB, and members of the ruling Awami League’s student wing, Chhatra League, to suppress the movement. Allegedly, the law enforcement used rubber bullets, sound grenades, and live ammunition against protesters, resulting in over 1,400 fatalities and injuries to approximately 22,000 people.
Furthermore, the complaint states that at least 92 individuals lost their vision due to gunshot wounds, while hundreds were left with permanent disabilities.
In light of these incidents, Barrister Arefin has appealed to the ICC under Article 15 of the Rome Statute, calling for an independent investigation into Sheikh Hasina, her cabinet, and associated entities on charges of crimes against humanity.
The case is accompanied by extensive documentation, various reports, and video evidence detailing the incidents.
