DHAKA, June 17 (V7N) — A Dhaka court on Tuesday fixed July 14 for the hearing on charge framing in a sedition case filed against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 285 others. Judge Moin Uddin Chowdhury of the Dhaka Third Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge Court issued the order, adjourning proceedings to the new date.
During the hearing, the prosecution requested that charges be framed. The defense began presenting discharge petitions but could not finish its arguments and asked for more time. The court granted the request and set July 14 for the next hearing.
The case centers on allegations of anti-state activities and a conspiracy to overthrow the interim government through a virtual "Joy Bangla Brigade" meeting held on Zoom. Of the 286 accused, 259 — including Sheikh Hasina — are absconding and are being tried in absentia. On October 14, 2025, the court ordered newspaper notices directing the fugitives to appear.
Besides Sheikh Hasina, notable accused include former lawmaker Sabina Akhter Tuhin, US Awami League Vice-President Dr. Rabbi Alam, Joy Bangla Brigade member Kabirul Islam, Advocate Kamrul Islam, and Bangladesh Chhatra League President Saddam Hossain, among others.
According to the case statement, the virtual meeting took place on December 19, 2024, where participants allegedly pledged to launch a civil war to reinstall Sheikh Hasina as prime minister. A total of 577 people from home and abroad reportedly joined and committed to following her directives.
The Criminal Investigation Department found that the meeting, hosted by US Awami League leader Dr. Rabbi Alam, included discussions aimed at resisting the lawful government and inciting rebellion. After Home Ministry approval, CID Assistant Superintendent Md Enamul Haque filed the sedition case on March 27, 2025, against Sheikh Hasina and 72 others.
Following the probe, the CID submitted a charge sheet on August 14 against 286 people, including Sheikh Hasina. The court accepted the charge sheet and issued arrest warrants for all accused.
END/AJ/RH/
