DHAKA, Jan 21: A Bangladesh court on Wednesday scheduled February 9 for the next hearing on charge framing in a sedition case against ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 285 others.
The case arises from allegations that Hasina and hundreds of Awami League members participated in a virtual meeting of the “Joy Bangla Brigade” on December 19, 2024, during which they allegedly plotted to overthrow the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government.
Judge Md Abdus Salam of Dhaka Special Judge Court-9 allowed separate pleas from the defence in connection with the proceedings. Of the 286 accused, 259—including Hasina—remain at large and are being tried in absentia.
Notices were published in newspapers last October, directing the fugitives to appear before the court.
According to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), 577 individuals at home and abroad attended the Zoom meeting, discussing plans to resist the lawful government and incite rebellion.
The CID filed the sedition case on March 27, 2025, and submitted a charge sheet on August 14 against all 286 accused, which the court accepted while issuing arrest warrants.
Hasina fled to India on August 5, 2024, after being ousted amid violent student-led protests and was subsequently sentenced to death in absentia for “crimes against humanity.”
This case highlights ongoing political tensions under the interim government. (PTI)
