DHAKA, May 8(V7N) - The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) today denied the bail application of Tawfiq-e-Elahi, former Energy Advisor to Sheikh Hasina, who is accused of alleged involvement in crimes against humanity.  

A three-member bench of the ICT, presided over by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mazumdar, issued the order following a hearing on the bail petition submitted by his lawyer, Advocate Azizur Rahman.

During the hearing, Tawfiq’s counsel, Azizur Rahman, argued that they have not yet received a copy of the charges against his client. Consequently, they are unaware of the specifics regarding when, where, and whom his client is accused of killing or ordering to be killed.  

He further emphasized that the accused is over 70 years of age and suffers from various health issues, asserting that bail is necessary under these circumstances.  

In response, the Chief Prosecutor of the Tribunal, Mohammad Tazul Islam, stated that a "primary allegation" has been made against Tawfiq-e-Elahi, indicating his involvement in crimes against humanity committed nationwide during the July uprising. He argued that as an advisor to a former prime minister, Tawfiq-e-Elahi bears responsibility for that prime minister’s actions.  

Separately, the ICT has scheduled Monday for the hearing of the bail petition of former minister Mohammad Faruk Khan in a similar case concerning crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the July uprising.

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