The International Crimes Tribunal has sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death in a case linked to crimes against humanity committed during the July uprising.
Moments after the verdict was announced on Monday, many students and youths gathered at Dhanmondi 32 fell to the ground in prostration. Some offered prayers, seeking paradise for those killed in the July movement and recovery for the injured.
News of the verdict triggered immediate celebration in the area. Crowds broke into marches and chants, loudly expressing their reactions against Sheikh Hasina.
Tension had been building in Dhanmondi 32 since morning. Several standoffs occurred between students, protesters, and law enforcement. Clashes, tear gas, and stone-throwing at times escalated the situation.
The verdict was delivered by a three-member bench of Tribunal-1, headed by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumdar, with Justice Shafiul Alam Mahmud and Justice Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury as panel members.
Alongside Sheikh Hasina, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun were also defendants in the case. Mamun later turned approver, giving testimony for the state and admitting his role.