Bangladesh Prosecutor: Hasina to go directly to jail upon return

File photo: Sheikh Hasina

DHAKA: "Whether you come in December or January is your decision, but we want you tomorrow," Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal's chief prosecutor said, days after former PM Sheikh Hasina asserted she will return and surrender by December. It was ICT - hearing several cases against her - that sentenced her to death in a "crimes against humanity" case last year in absentia. On her surrender, chief prosecutor Md Aminul Islam, however, said Hasina would be sent directly to jail if she returns to Bangladesh from India under the extradition treaty, with no legal opportunity to surrender before the court. "If she is under Indian government's control, she cannot return on her own. Either she will be handed over to Bangladesh under the extradition treaty or she will be pushed back," he told reporters Sunday, a day after his "we want you tomorrow" remarks On Saturday, he also warned Hasina against staging any stunts or creating further instability in the country. Urging people not to lose confidence in the trial process, Islam said ICT activities have gained momentum under Tarique Rahman-led BNP govt and trial of crimes committed during the 2024 "mass uprising" - that ousted Hasina as PM - is being pursued not only against individuals but also at organisational level.