A Bangladesh court has issued an arrest warrant for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently in exile in India, over her alleged role in mass killings during violent protests that erupted earlier in the year. These protests, initially led by students opposing job quotas in the public sector, escalated into widespread unrest, resulting in over 700 fatalities. Hasina fled to India on August 5, with an interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, taking over in her absence.

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal, led by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumdar, responded to prosecutors’ concerns that Hasina’s influence could hinder the investigation. Chief prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam emphasized that arresting Hasina and other accused individuals was essential for a comprehensive inquiry. The court has ordered that Hasina be detained and brought to trial by November 18.

Since August, over 60 complaints have been filed against Hasina and her party, the Awami League, citing cases of enforced disappearances, murder, and mass killings. Her son, Sajeeb Wazed, has maintained her innocence, stating that she is willing to face trial in Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s de-facto foreign minister, Mohammad Touhid Hossain, affirmed that efforts are underway to ensure Hasina’s return within the one-month deadline set by the court.