KATHMANDU: A murder charge has been brought against former prime minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina and six other people in relation to the July 19 police shooting killing of grocery store owner Abu Sayeed. The following day, Sayeed's body was found in the Mohammadpur neighborhood of Dhaka. This lawsuit is Sheikh Hasina's first legal move since her August 5 resignation and subsequent trip to India. Prominent individuals including former high-ranking police officers and General Secretary of the Awami League Obaidul Quader are among the other accused.
The complaint was lodged by Amir Hamza Shatil, a resident of Mohammadpur and a "well-wisher of the victim." Shatil's complaint alleges that Sayeed was killed during a police crackdown on protesters during anti-quota demonstrations. Although Shatil did not know Sayeed personally, he felt compelled to file the case. The complaint also highlights that Sayeed’s family, residing in Boda Upazila, lacks the resources to pursue legal action independently.
After more than 15 years in office, Sheikh Hasina was forced to flee the nation in the face of violent protests that broke out in early July. Police interference turned the first peaceful protests into violent events. Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel laureate, assumed leadership of the temporary administration on August 8 as main advisor.
