Dhaka: Bangladesh entered one of its most turbulent moments in recent history on Monday after a special tribunal sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for crimes against humanity linked to last year’s violent crackdown on student protesters.

The International Crimes Tribunal-1 in Dhaka delivered the verdict in Hasina’s absence, accusing her of ordering or failing to stop the deadly force used against thousands of young people who took to the streets in mid-2024. The protests, which began over quota reforms, quickly grew into a nationwide movement against her long rule.

Human rights groups estimate that up to 1400 people may have died in the clashes.

Hasina, who led the country for about 15 years, was ousted from power on August 5, 2024. She fled to India soon after and has remained there while the interim government, headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, took control of the country. The tribunal found her responsible for widespread abuses during the crackdown, including the use of live ammunition, drones and helicopters against unarmed civilians.

Her lawyers and political allies dismissed the ruling as politically driven, saying she did not receive a fair chance to defend herself. They argued that the charges were designed to eliminate her and her party from Bangladesh’s political future. Despite these objections, the tribunal insisted that the verdict followed due process.

Security was tightened across the country ahead of the announcement. In Dhaka and other major cities, authorities deployed additional police and military units. Several small explosions and cases of arson were reported on Sunday night, raising fears of fresh unrest. Officials warned that anyone attempting violence or sabotage would face a strict response.

The verdict also affects the political landscape in the run-up to the national elections scheduled for February 2026.

Hasina’s party, the Awami League, has already been barred from contesting, a move that has angered thousands of its supporters and deepened the divide between rival political groups.

International observers say the coming weeks will be important in determining whether the interim government can maintain order while respecting democratic rights. Many countries are watching closely, especially India, where Hasina is currently based, and global human rights organisations that have raised concerns about the fairness of the trial.

Hasina’s legal team can appeal the verdict to the Supreme Court, but it is unclear whether she will participate in the process from abroad. Meanwhile, ordinary Bangladeshis remain anxious, worried that the country may be heading toward further instability at a time when many are struggling with rising living costs and unemployment.

The verdict marks a dramatic turn in the country’s politics and leaves many people wondering how Bangladesh will move forward as it prepares for a crucial election year.