DHAKA, Nov 17 : Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka for crimes against humanity. The verdict, delivered on November 17, 2025, relates to a deadly crackdown on student-led protests in July and August 2024, which resulted in the deaths of up to 1,400 people, according to UN estimates.

Key Points of the Conviction:

Crimes Against Humanity: Sheikh Hasina was convicted for her role in the violent repression of protests, including murder, torture, and other inhumane acts.
Death Sentence: The court sentenced her to death for her crimes, although she is currently in exile in India and unlikely to be extradited.
Trial Details: The trial was conducted in absentia, with Sheikh Hasina refusing to recognize the tribunal's authority and calling it a "kangaroo court".
Evidence: The prosecution presented surveillance footage, drone logs, hospital records, and leaked government communications as evidence of Sheikh Hasina's direct involvement in the crackdown ¹ ² ³.

Reactions:

Government Response: The interim government in Bangladesh has defended the trial as transparent and fair, while Sheikh Hasina's party, the Awami League, has condemned the verdict as politically motivated.
International Concerns: The United Nations has expressed cautious support for judicial accountability while urging impartiality and respect for human rights.
Potential Unrest: Sheikh Hasina's son, Sajeeb Wazed, has warned of potential violence and unrest in Bangladesh if the ban on the Awami League is not lifted ? ².