Treason case against Hasina, 285 others ready for trial
A Dhaka court today ordered the transfer of a sedition case against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 285 others to the Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Judge's Court, marking the next stage set for trial proceedings.
The case, filed over allegations of participating in anti‑state activities and conspiring to overthrow the interim government, revolves around a Zoom meeting of the so-called "Joy Bangla Brigade" held on 19 December 2024.
According to the investigation, 577 participants at home and abroad pledged to follow directives to reinstate Sheikh Hasina as prime minister, and discussions allegedly encouraged rebellion against the lawful government. The meeting was hosted by US Awami League leader Dr Rabbi Alam.
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Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Ishrat Jenifar Zerin issued the transfer order after completion of all preparatory procedures for trial.
CID Assistant Superintendent of Police Md Enamul Haque, who lodged the case and also conducted the investigation, told reporters that 28 accused, including former lawmaker and ex-president of Dhaka North Jubo Mohila League Sabina Akhter Tuhin, are currently in custody, while 258 remain absconding.
On 14 October, the court had ordered public notices asking the fugitives, including Sheikh Hasina, to appear in court.
The case names several prominent figures among the accused, including Dr Rabbi Alam, Kabirul Islam, Advocate Kamrul Islam, Elahi Newaz Masum, Zakir Hossain Jiku, Prof Taheruzzaman, AKM Akhtaruzzaman, Ajida Parveen Pakhi, Adv AFM Didarul Islam, Maksudur Rahman, former lawmakers Syeda Rubina Akter and Pankaj Nath, Laila Banu, Bangladesh Chhatra League president Saddam Hossain, Ritu Akter, Nurunnabi Nibir, Sabina Begum, and Shariful Islam Ramzan.
The sedition case was filed on 27 March 2025 after the Home Ministry approved CID's investigation, and the charge sheet against 286 individuals was submitted on 14 August. The court accepted the charge sheet and issued arrest warrants against all the accused, setting the stage for trial in the Sessions Court.
