In a major development, Bangladesh has detained 15 senior military officers accused of serious human rights violations, including killings and enforced disappearances during the 2024 student movement.
According to reports, a special court in Dhaka handed over the officers to judicial custody on charges of participating in operations that allegedly targeted student protesters and activists. These operations were reportedly carried out under the orders of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government, raising concerns about abuse of power and accountability within the security forces.
The court proceedings have drawn significant national and international attention, with human rights organizations calling for an impartial investigation into the alleged crimes. Witnesses claim that dozens of students were abducted during the 2024 unrest, while several were later found dead under mysterious circumstances.
The accused officers, most of whom served in intelligence and counterterrorism units, face charges under Bangladesh’s human rights and criminal laws. Legal experts in Dhaka said that this is the first time in years that such high-ranking members of the armed forces have been formally charged for human rights abuses.
Officials confirmed that the arrests were made following months of investigations, during which multiple victims and witnesses recorded statements about the 2024 crackdown. The court ordered the officers to remain in custody while the inquiry continues.
Opposition leaders have welcomed the arrests, saying it’s a long-overdue step toward justice for families who have suffered under state-backed repression. However, government representatives maintain that the investigation is purely judicial and not politically motivated.
The case also highlights the growing scrutiny of state institutions in Bangladesh as international watchdogs press for transparency and adherence to human rights conventions. Analysts suggest that the outcome of this trial could have lasting implications for civil-military relations and Bangladesh’s global reputation.
In a related development on the international front, Donald Trump recently claimed that he had personally urged Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to avoid war with Pakistan during his presidency a statement that underscores the geopolitical sensitivity in South Asia
As the trial of the 15 officers moves forward, the Bangladeshi judiciary faces mounting pressure to deliver justice transparently and ensure that no one remains above the law.
