Publish summons for Hasina in newspapers

Staff Reporter :

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Sunday directed that public notices be published in two national newspapers summoning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and ex-Chhatra League leader Shakil Alam Bulbul to face contempt of court charges.

The order came from a three-member tribunal bench led by Justice Golam Mortuza Mozumdar after hearing a petition filed by Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam. The tribunal also set June 3 for its next order.

Hasina and Bulbul, both currently reported as absconding, failed to respond to earlier summons issued regarding statements linked to the controversial July Uprising case.

A contempt complaint was filed on April 30, and the tribunal had initially ordered them to submit responses by May 15.

As they did not comply, the tribunal summoned them to appear on May 25. However, their absence prompted the tribunal to take further steps.

“Contempt of court notices were served, and they were instructed to appear before the tribunal. Since they have failed to do so, we request that public notices be is sued in newspapers,” Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam said during the hearing.

He added: “A seven-day notice should be given through publication. If they still do not appear, the tribunal may proceed with further orders as per procedure.”

The tribunal accepted the plea and instructed the registrar to publish summons in two widely circulated newspapers.

The case has drawn heightened attention after an audio clip surfaced online, allegedly featuring a voice stating: “There are 227 cases against me, so I have got a licence to kill 227 people.” The clip has sparked public debate and further scrutiny of the accused’s public conduct.

Legal analysts say the move indicates the tribunal’s intent to treat contempt allegations with utmost seriousness, regardless of the political stature of those involved.

Further developments are expected following the expiration of the seven-day notice period.