Bangladesh Victim Families Demand Justice with Call for Hasina’s Execution

Shahina Begum expressed her deep grief after a special court in Dhaka sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her aide, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, to death for crimes against humanity. This ruling comes in response to the tragic events of August 5, 2024, when 20-year-old Sajjat Hosen Sojal was shot and killed by police during a student-led uprising. His mother, Begum, believes justice will only be served when Hasina is returned and executed.

Key Events of the July Uprising

The uprising, which unfolded primarily in the Ashulia area on the outskirts of Dhaka, was sparked by student protests. On that fateful day, six protesters lost their lives, reportedly on orders from Hasina, as part of a severe crackdown by law enforcement. This incident is part of what is now known as the July Uprising, which led to over 1,400 deaths, according to the United Nations.

Details of the Sentencing

Following a lengthy trial held in absentia, the International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka delivered its verdict on Monday. Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan received death sentences, while former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah al-Mamun was sentenced to five years in prison for testifying against them.

Public Reaction

In the aftermath of the ruling, emotions surged across Bangladesh, a nation of approximately 170 million. Families affected by the violence are pushing for the swift enforcement of the death sentences.

• Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdho called for Hasina to face justice, stating she “deserves the maximum penalty.”
• Family members of Abu Sayeed, the first casualty of the uprising, echoed similar sentiments, advocating for immediate execution of Hasina.
• Sanjida Khan Dipti, who lost her son Shahriar Khan Anas, emphasized that true justice will come only when the sentence is executed.

Concerns Over Extradition and Justice

Many families express doubts about whether Hasina will be extradited from India, her current refuge and a historical ally. The concern among victims’ families is that shifts in governmental support might shield Hasina and Khan from accountability.

Calls for Action and Social Movements

Processions erupted across Dhaka and other regions, as students and citizens demanded Hasina’s extradition and execution. Symbols like public demonstrations and enactments of her execution have taken place to highlight the desire for justice.

Political and Human Rights Perspectives

The verdict has received mixed reactions from political parties and human rights organizations. While parties like the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami welcomed the judgment, organizations like Amnesty International raised concerns regarding due process, particularly around the nature of a trial in absentia.

Outlook for the Victims’ Families

Despite the complexities surrounding the execution of justice, families of the victims view the ruling as a positive step forward. They believe it acknowledges the traumas they endured during the uprising and offers a glimmer of hope for closure.

Atikul Gazi, a survivor of police violence during the uprising, concluded that the verdict signals a commitment to justice, stating, “It feels like the souls of the July martyrs will now find some peace.”