What's happened
Bangladesh's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina faces charges linked to a deadly crackdown on student protests in 2024, with allegations of ordering or failing to prevent violence that resulted in approximately 1,400 deaths. She remains in exile in India, defying court orders to return for trial. The case highlights ongoing political tensions and questions about judicial independence.
What's behind the headline?
The case against Sheikh Hasina underscores the deep political divisions in Bangladesh. The prosecution's demand for severe penalties, including the possibility of the death sentence, reflects the gravity of the alleged crimes and the government's desire to demonstrate accountability. However, the trial's fairness is questionable, given Bangladesh's history of politicized judiciary, as highlighted by reports from Freedom House. The fact that Hasina remains in India, which has refused extradition, complicates the legal process and raises questions about international influence. The case also signals a broader shift in Bangladesh's political landscape, where the current government seeks to reassert authority by targeting past leaders. The outcome will likely influence regional stability and the future of political accountability in Bangladesh. The international community's response, especially India's stance, will be critical in shaping the trial's legitimacy and potential repercussions for regional diplomacy.
What the papers say
The South China Morning Post reports on the ongoing legal proceedings and the allegations against Sheikh Hasina, emphasizing the severity of the charges and her exile status. AP News highlights the violence during the protests and the calls for the death penalty, providing context on the scale of the unrest and the legal arguments. Both sources reveal a narrative of political rivalry, with the prosecution framing the case as justice for mass killings, while critics question the fairness of Bangladesh's judiciary. The articles contrast in tone: SCMP focuses on the legal and political implications, while AP emphasizes the violence and the demands for harsh punishment, illustrating the complex and contentious nature of this case.
How we got here
The protests in Bangladesh during July and August 2024, which resulted in hundreds of deaths, were triggered by a student-led uprising against the interim government. Sheikh Hasina, who was Prime Minister for 15 years, is accused of orchestrating or neglecting to stop the violence. She fled to India last year, amid political unrest and accusations of corruption and abuse of power. The trial, which began in June 2025, is part of a broader effort by the current government to hold former officials accountable, amid accusations of politicized justice and ongoing political rivalry.
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Sheikh Hasina, also known by her married name Sheikh Hasina Wazed, is a Bangladeshi politician serving as the 10th Prime Minister of Bangladesh, having held the office since January 2009.
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Bangladesh, officially the People's Republic of Bangladesh, is a country in South Asia. It is the eighth-most populous country in the world, with a population exceeding 162 million people.