Nahid demands Awami League's trial as a party, raises concerns over ICT pace

Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam today (14 July) demanded the trial of the Awami League as a political party over the 1971 atrocities, the July 2024 killings and the alleged destruction of state institutions during its 16 years in power.

Speaking during a general discussion in parliament on the July Uprising and the prosecution of those responsible for the killings, he also expressed concern over what he described as political propaganda against the uprising, alleged "case trade" involving genocide cases and the slow pace of proceedings at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).

Paying tribute to those killed and injured in the July Uprising ahead of its second anniversary, Nahid said 14 July should continue to be observed as "July Women's Day", as declared by the interim government, in recognition of women's role in the movement.

Recalling events of 14 July 2024, he said the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement had submitted a memorandum to the then-president before the then-prime minister Sheikh Hasina, returning from China that night, referred to protesters as "grandchildren of Razakars", triggering demonstrations that evolved into a mass political uprising.

Nahid alleged that the Awami League, sections of the Indian media and some BNP lawmakers had attempted to undermine the uprising by portraying it as a "staged plot", denying the presence of snipers and protesters' sacrifices, and promoting what he called the Awami League's "false narrative" by comparing police deaths with those killed during the movement.

He also raised concerns over 1,499 genocide-related cases filed since August 5. Citing an investigation by a national daily, he said 21 of 40 verified cases involved allegations of extortion or financial transactions linked to some grassroots BNP leaders, while the remaining 19 arose from personal, family or business disputes. He alleged that innocent businesspeople and even rival BNP activists had been implicated alongside actual perpetrators and urged the home minister to disclose the status of case scrutiny.

Questioning the ICT's progress, Nahid said the previous prosecution team had completed investigations that led to recent verdicts and charge framing in three cases, but the current team had shown little progress. 

He urged the government to appoint competent prosecutors, expand the number of tribunals if necessary and present a roadmap for speedy trials.

Nahid also called for the extradition of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina from India through diplomatic efforts, saying the ICT verdict against her should be enforced without delay.