Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka in connection with alleged crimes against humanity during last year’s widespread student-led protests that led to the fall of her government. The verdict, delivered today, marks a stunning chapter in Bangladesh’s political history, sparking intense reactions across the country and beyond.

What Led to the Verdict?

The ICT found Sheikh Hasina guilty of ordering a violent crackdown on student demonstrators in July–August 2024, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of over 1,400 people, according to United Nations data. The unrest had erupted over allegations of authoritarianism and attempts to suppress dissent, ultimately culminating in her ouster. Alongside Hasina, Bangladesh’s former Home Minister has also been sentenced to death, while the former police chief—who testified against her—received a lighter sentence.

The tribunal’s decision reportedly received applause inside the courtroom, highlighting the deep divides in public sentiment. While fundamentalist groups celebrated the court’s ruling, Hasina’s supporters were seen in tears, decrying what they described as a politically motivated judgment.

Celebrations and Chaos in Bangladesh

Following the verdict, reports emerged of widespread unrest in Dhaka, Chittagong, and Gopalganj. In Dhaka, the home of an Awami League MP was set on fire, and clashes broke out between security forces and supporters of the former Prime Minister. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus, hailed the decision as “historic” and urged the public to maintain calm.

However, the growing turmoil raises fears of further instability. Dhaka has reportedly been turned into a fortified zone, with over 15,000 security personnel deployed in anticipation of violent backlash from Awami League loyalists.

Hasina in India: Extradition Demand and India’s Stand

Sheikh Hasina, 78, has been living in India since August 5, 2024, when she fled Bangladesh following a military-supported coup. Today, the Bangladesh government formally requested India to extradite her. In response, New Delhi acknowledged the verdict and reiterated its commitment to peace and democratic processes in Bangladesh—but gave no indication that it would comply with the extradition request.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has previously signaled that if Sheikh Hasina sought political asylum, she would be treated as a refugee. Observers believe New Delhi is highly unlikely to hand her over, a stance that mirrors Pakistan’s handling of former leader Pervez Musharraf, who lived in exile for years despite a death sentence.

Hasina Calls Verdict “Biased,” Claims Political Vendetta

Reacting to the sentence, Sheikh Hasina called the verdict “biased and politically motivated.” In statements shared via her legal team, she asserted that the case against her was fabricated, driven by extremist elements and backed by foreign powers aiming to dismantle Bangladesh’s democratic order.

According to Hasina’s aides, the former Prime Minister had ordered security action to protect democratic institutions from extremist attempts to destabilize Bangladesh. Her supporters claim the student agitation was infiltrated and guided by Jamaat-e-Islami and other radical groups, disguised as a democratic movement but aiming to trigger regime change.

Dhaka Burning: Fears of Civil Conflict

The situation in Bangladesh is rapidly deteriorating. Observers warn of the potential for Dhaka and other major cities to slip into civil unrest, echoing fears that Bangladesh could slide down the path of Pakistan—with military interventions, religious extremism, and political vendettas shaping national identity.

Dr. Muhammad Yunus, currently heading the interim government, is himself under increasing pressure. Violent protests by Hasina loyalists and retaliatory moves by fundamentalist groups raise questions about how long the interim administration can keep control. With Hindu temples vandalized, homes burnt, and civilians killed in recent clashes, international concern is growing over Bangladesh’s stability.

What’s Next for Bangladesh?

With two former leaders now sentenced to death, Bangladesh appears to be at a dangerous crossroads. Calls for peacekeeping intervention, even by the United Nations or India, are emerging as the country grapples with violence and uncertainty. For now, Dhaka remains tense, and the streets are witnessing a battle for the nation’s future.

Whether Sheikh Hasina ever returns to Bangladesh to face the sentence remains in doubt. As long as she remains under India’s protection, the political crisis continues to unfold—raising questions not just about the fate of one leader, but about the very future of democracy in Bangladesh.