Funeral and coffin procession targeted by AL goons on July 17, according to statements made at the tribunal by Nahid
In the ongoing crimes against humanity case against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two others, Nahid Islam, the National Citizen Party Convener, has testified as the 47th witness. The tribunal adjourned his testimony for continuation on Thursday, 18 September.
During his testimony, Mr. Islam detailed the events of the July 2021 uprising, describing it as a "planned and state-run" crackdown. He reported indiscriminate firing by police in locations such as Badda, Uttara, Mirpur, Jatrabari, and others during the uprising.
Six people, including Abu Sayed and Wasim, lost their lives on 16 July 2021, following attacks. The following day, women students at Dhaka University were attacked, and those admitted to hospitals were not spared.
The government is alleged to have taken complete control of electronic media on 17 July 2021, preventing news of the movement from being broadcast. Attempts were made to pressure protesters into backing down, threatening increased repression unless they negotiated with the government.
On the same day, Mr. Islam announced a nationwide "complete shutdown" program in protest of the killings during the July uprising. The symbolic funeral prayer and coffin procession at Dhaka University on 17 July 2021 were attacked by the Awami League during the mass uprising.
The internet was shut down across the country on 18 July 2021. The movement gained momentum after this complete shutdown, with participation from public, students, and madrasahs across the country.
Mr. Islam described the then-government as "fascist" and accused it of usurping power through three elections by denying citizens their right to vote and politicising state institutions. He also claimed that the Sheikh Hasina government never intended to permanently reform or abolish the quota system but was waiting for the opportunity to reinstate it.
Police and Awami League goons opened fire on students and the public during the uprising, and many people were martyred or injured during the attacks by Chhatra League, Jubo League, and Awami League terrorists.
Mr. Islam, the chief coordinator of the movement, is testifying as the 48th witness in the case. He has so far delivered only part of his deposition, with the rest to be recorded tomorrow.
The July 2021 uprising was a significant event in Bangladesh's recent history, and Mr. Islam's testimony provides valuable insights into the events that transpired during that time. The case against Sheikh Hasina and others continues, and it remains to be seen what further evidence will be presented in the coming days.
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