The International Crimes Tribunal-1 has ordered the commencement of trial against ex-prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Joy and former state minister for ICT Junaid Ahmed Palak in a crimes against humanity case over the killings during July-August mass uprising. 

A three-member panel of ICT-1 led by Chairman Justice Golam Mortuza Mozumder passed the order on Wednesday after framing charges against the two accused.

Justice Shafiul Alam Mahmud then read out the three charges brought by the prosecution, following which the tribunal formally framed the charges, paving the way for the start of trial.

The tribunal fixed February 18 for opening statements and recording of testimonies.

Read More: Chankharpul massacre verdict deferred to Jan 26

Among the two accused, Palak is in custody and was produced before the tribunal from jail in the morning. Joy is being represented by state-appointed lawyer Manzur Alam. 

On January 15, the ICT fixed January 21 for framing charges against them.

Three allegations brought against them in the case are Palak incited violence through a Facebook post on the night of July 14, 2024 as per the instructions from Joy.

Following the alleged provocation, police along with armed members of the Awami League and its student wing banned Chhatra League carried out attacks on protesters at Dhaka University and several other locations on July 15.

Besides, the accused encouraged the shutdown of internet services and instigated the use of lethal weapons while also providing assistance in acts of killing that left 28 people, including Russel and Mosleh Uddin killed.

The third charge relates to their role in facilitating 34 killings in Uttara.

On December 10, last year, ICT asked the authorities concerned to issue notice in national dailies asking Joy to surrender before the tribunal.

Read More: War crimes convict Abul Kalam Azad surrenders to ICT