### Bangladesh's Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Faces Trial for Crimes Against Humanity In a significant development in Bangladesh's political landscape, the International Crimes Tribunal has initiated proceedings against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been indicted on multiple charges, including mass murder and crimes against humanity. This trial stems from her alleged involvement in a violent crackdown on student-led protests that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of individuals during a mass uprising last year. The tribunal's actions follow a May 12 report that named Hasina as the authority behind the orders for these killings, marking a pivotal moment in the country's history as it grapples with the aftermath of political unrest and violence [https://www.millenniumpost.in/world/bangladesh-tribunal-indicts-former-pm-hasina-on-mass-murder-charges-613124, https://www.india.com/news/world/breaking-bangladesh-charges-its-ex-pm-sheikh-hasina-with-crimes-against-humanity-during-july-2024-uprising-2025-06-01-9928087]. ### Structure of the Trial and Charges Against Hasina 1. **Charges Overview**: Sheikh Hasina has been formally charged with crimes against humanity, including orchestrating a systematic attack on protesters during the 2024 uprising, which led to significant loss of life [https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/bangladeshs-international-crimes-tribunal-hears-ex-prime-minister-sheikh-hasina-charges-update-on-june-1/article69644825.ece]. 2. **Trial Proceedings**: The trial commenced on June 1, 2025, and is being conducted in absentia, as Hasina is currently a fugitive. The proceedings are notable for being broadcast live on national television, a first in Bangladesh's history [https://www.livemint.com/news/world/bangladesh-indicts-ex-pm-sheikh-hasina-on-mass-murder-charges-trial-broadcast-on-live-television-11748787625430.html]. 3. **Context of the Uprising**: The charges are rooted in the events of July and August 2024, when widespread protests erupted against Hasina's government, leading to a violent crackdown that reportedly resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,400 individuals [https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2025/Jun/01/sheikh-hasina-faces-trial-for-crimes-against-humanity-after-crackdown-killed-1400-in-bangladesh-uprising]. ### Evidence and Implications of the Trial - **Prosecutorial Claims**: Prosecutors have accused Hasina of being the key instigator behind the violent suppression of protests, asserting that her actions constituted a systematic attack against civilians [https://www.scmp.com/news/asia/south-asia/article/3312646/bangladesh-trial-accuses-fugitive-ex-pm-hasina-organising-systematic-attack-protests]. - **Potential Consequences**: If convicted, Hasina could face severe penalties, including a possible death sentence, which underscores the gravity of the charges against her [https://www.indiatvnews.com/news/world/sheikh-hasina-faces-possible-death-sentence-as-bangladesh-tribunal-to-hear-charges-today-to-be-live-telecast-on-state-tv-2025-06-01-992772]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment in Bangladesh's Political History The trial of Sheikh Hasina represents a critical juncture for Bangladesh, as it seeks to address the violent legacy of her administration. The proceedings are not only a legal battle but also a reflection of the ongoing political tensions within the country. 1. **Historical Significance**: This trial marks a significant step in holding political leaders accountable for their actions during times of unrest, potentially setting a precedent for future governance in Bangladesh. 2. **Public Sentiment**: The live broadcast of the trial indicates a shift towards transparency in judicial processes, which may influence public perception and trust in the legal system [https://www.business-standard.com/world-news/b-desh-tribunal-begins-sheikh-hasina-s-trial-proceedings-aired-live-on-tv-125060100286_1.html]. 3. **Future Implications**: The outcome of this trial could have far-reaching implications for Bangladesh's political landscape, affecting not only Hasina's legacy but also the dynamics of power among competing political factions [https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/06/01/world/politics/bangladesh-fugitive-pm-trial].