In a significant political development, Bangladesh’s interim government has revoked the passports of 97 individuals, including ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The government’s decision comes in the wake of allegations of violence during the July 2024 protests and incidents of enforced disappearances. This move marks a turning point in Bangladesh’s political landscape and raises questions about accountability, justice, and the future of the country’s democracy.
Revocation of Passports and Legal Implications
The interim government’s decision to revoke 97 passports underscores its commitment to addressing human rights violations. Among the revoked passports, 22 were tied to alleged connections with enforced disappearances, while 75, including Hasina’s, were associated with the violence that erupted during the July protests. The violence reportedly resulted in hundreds of deaths, sparking international condemnation and calls for accountability.
The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has issued an arrest warrant against Sheikh Hasina and 11 others for their alleged involvement in enforced disappearances. The tribunal has scheduled their court appearance for February 12, 2025. Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mojumder, chairman of the ICT, emphasized the necessity of a comprehensive investigation into these allegations. The Inspector General of Police has been directed to ensure the apprehension and presentation of the accused before the tribunal.
This is not the first time Hasina has faced legal scrutiny. The ICT’s latest warrant adds to her legal troubles, following an earlier arrest warrant issued after her government’s collapse in August 2024.
Background of the July Protests
The July 2024 protests were triggered by the Supreme Court’s decision to reinstate a 30% quota for government jobs for descendants of freedom fighters. This reversal of a previous government decision was seen by many students and young professionals as a limitation on merit-based opportunities. The protests quickly gained momentum, evolving into a broader movement against the government’s policies, corruption, economic mismanagement, and human rights violations.
The government’s response to the protests was marked by violence and repression. Law enforcement agencies, including the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), were accused of using excessive force against protesters. Reports of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings further fueled public anger.
By August 2024, the situation had escalated to the point where Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled to India. Her departure marked the end of the Awami League-led government, which had been in power since 2009.
Formation of the Interim Government
In the aftermath of Hasina’s resignation, an interim government was established under the leadership of Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The interim government comprises members from civil society, academics, and former bureaucrats, with the aim of restoring law and order and guiding the nation toward democratic elections.
Yunus’s appointment has been welcomed by the international community. Countries such as India, China, Pakistan, the European Union, and the United States have expressed support for Bangladesh’s democratic transition. The interim government has also sought to address longstanding issues of corruption and human rights violations, signaling a new era of governance in Bangladesh.
Allegations Against Sheikh Hasina’s Administration
Prosecutors allege that during Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, a culture of state-sponsored enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings became prevalent. Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam stated that elite law enforcement units such as the RAB and DGFI were frequently used to abduct individuals perceived as threats to the government.
A commission established by the interim government has documented 1,676 complaints of enforced disappearances during Hasina’s tenure. The commission’s report indicates that 27% of the victims remain unaccounted for, raising concerns about the scale of human rights abuses. These disappearances were often politically motivated, targeting opposition members, activists, journalists, and ordinary citizens.
The allegations against Hasina have been substantiated by multiple human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. These organizations have called for an independent investigation into the enforced disappearances and other human rights violations committed during Hasina’s time in office.
International Implications and Extradition Request
In December 2024, the interim government formally requested Sheikh Hasina’s extradition from India. The request has put New Delhi in a delicate position. India has historically maintained close ties with the Awami League and Sheikh Hasina, supporting her government on various regional and bilateral issues.
While India has acknowledged receiving the extradition request, it has refrained from making any public statements. The situation presents a diplomatic challenge for India, as it must balance its strategic interests with the need to address allegations of human rights violations and ensure justice for the victims.
The international community is closely monitoring the developments in Bangladesh. The United Nations and various human rights organizations have called for a transparent and fair legal process to address the allegations against Sheikh Hasina and other accused individuals.
Reactions from Political Parties and Civil Society
The revocation of Sheikh Hasina’s passport and the issuance of arrest warrants have elicited mixed reactions from political parties and civil society in Bangladesh. The opposition parties have welcomed the interim government’s actions, viewing them as necessary steps toward accountability and justice.
However, supporters of the Awami League have criticized the interim government’s actions as politically motivated. They argue that the allegations against Hasina are part of a broader campaign to discredit her legacy and weaken the Awami League’s influence in Bangladeshi politics.
Civil society organizations have expressed cautious optimism about the interim government’s efforts to address human rights violations. They have called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the allegations, ensuring that justice is served without any political bias.
Future Prospects for Bangladesh’s Democracy
The current political situation in Bangladesh presents both challenges and opportunities for the country’s democratic future. The interim government’s actions to address human rights violations and promote accountability are seen as positive steps toward restoring public trust in governance.
However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges. Ensuring a fair and transparent legal process, addressing economic issues, and rebuilding public institutions will be critical to the success of the democratic transition.
The international community’s support will be crucial in facilitating Bangladesh’s democratic transition. Countries and international organizations must provide assistance and oversight to ensure that the interim government’s efforts to address human rights violations are successful.
Conclusion
The revocation of Sheikh Hasina’s passport and the issuance of arrest warrants against her mark a significant moment in Bangladesh’s political history. The interim government’s actions signal a commitment to addressing past human rights abuses and promoting accountability.
As Bangladesh navigates this transitional period, the international community and civil society must play a supportive role in ensuring that justice is served, and democratic values are upheld. The future of Bangladesh’s democracy depends on the success of these efforts to promote accountability, transparency, and human rights.
References
- Human Rights Watch, “Bangladesh: Investigate Enforced Disappearances,” December 2024.
- Amnesty International, “State-Sponsored Disappearances in Bangladesh: A Legacy of Abuse,” November 2024.
- United Nations, “Statement on Bangladesh’s Democratic Transition,” October 2024.
- International Crimes Tribunal, “Arrest Warrant for Sheikh Hasina and Others,” January 2025.
- Supreme Court of Bangladesh, “Quota System Ruling,” June 2024.
- The Dhaka Tribune, “Analysis of July 2024 Protests,” August 2024.
- BBC News, “Sheikh Hasina’s Resignation and Exile,” August 2024.
- Al Jazeera, “Muhammad Yunus and the Interim Government,” September 2024.
- The Times of India, “Bangladesh’s Political Crisis: Implications for South Asia,” December 2024.
