July-August genocide data collection underway: ICT chief prosecutor

Letters are being sent to all the media houses, public and private hospitals, civil surgeons, deputy commissioners (DCs) and superintendents of police (SPs) seeking authentic data regarding the mass killings carried out on the orders of the previous government during the July-August student protests, Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Md Tajul Islam said today (14 September).

"We have visited hospitals to collect data on the July-August genocide. Letters are also being sent to various cemetery management authorities seeking information. This will continue until we collect all the right information regarding the genocide," he told BSS.

Stating that the students are the actual witnesses of the events that took place during the movement, he said the agency has taken initiative to exchange views with the coordinators of the student movement.
    
"According to the government, during the 36-day-long movement, the law enforcement forces and cadres of the then ruling party Awami League killed more than 800 people, although it is suspected that the actual number is higher. Thousands of people are undergoing treatment. The July-August genocide is an international crime and it shall be tried by the tribunal," he added.

While asked about the renovation of the tribunal building, he said, "The current environment of the International Crimes Tribunal is not up to the mark for the trial of high profile accused. Besides, a few foreign delegates may pay a visit for observation when the trial starts. Therefore, the old building of the tribunal is in urgent need of repair and renovation."

Calling upon all concerned to cooperate with the ICT by giving authentic information regarding the July-August massacre, Tajul Islam said, "We are committed to establishing justice by ensuring international standards and transparency during the trial. And we want our people to come forward and join the march towards justice."