In brief
Evidence emerging from a leaked audio recording reportedly reveals that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina sanctioned a deadly crackdown on student-led protests in Bangladesh, spurring widespread outrage and legal action against her.
The authenticity of the audio, verified by BBC Eye, captures Hasina instructing security forces to utilize "lethal weapons" against protesters, claiming, "wherever they find [them], they will shoot". This shocking revelation marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing trial against her for crimes against humanity, with the prosecution intending to present the audio as significant evidence. According to United Nations investigations, last summer’s protests, triggered by discontent over civil service job quotas, escalated into a deadly uprising that resulted in approximately 1,400 fatalities. Hasina, who has reportedly fled to India, and her Awami League party vehemently deny any wrongdoing. A spokesperson for the party claimed the recording does not demonstrate any ill intentions.The leaked conversation, held on July 18, 2022, is considered damaging as it appears to provide a direct link between Hasina's orders and the violence that erupted when thousands took to the streets last summer. The protests escalated dramatically after police were seen using excessive force against demonstrators, sparking public outrage. Following Hasina's call, military-grade rifles were documented being deployed by security forces in the capital, Dhaka.As the trial progresses, it remains uncertain whether Hasina will face justice or return to Bangladesh, as the interim government prepares for national elections under Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. The Awami League's leadership maintains that their actions were lawful and proportionate, while the UN has indicated that the severity of the crackdown may constitute crimes against humanity. A total of 203 individuals have been indicted in connection with the incident, 73 of whom are currently in custody.The investigation is ongoing, with many calling for more transparency regarding the events that led to one of the most violent responses to civil unrest in Bangladesh's history.
