Dhaka: A Bangladeshi court on Sunday issued arrest warrants against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, British MP Tulip Rizwana Siddiq, and 50 others in a case involving the alleged illegal acquisition of land by misusing political power. According to a report by the Dhaka Tribune, the order was issued by Senior Special Judge Zakir Hossain of the Dhaka Metropolitan Court after taking cognizance of three separate charge sheets filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).
The newspaper, quoting ACC Assistant Director (Prosecution) Aminul Islam, said that Judge Hossain has scheduled April 27 to review the execution report of the arrest warrants. Citing court sources, Bengali daily Prothom Alo reported that the ACC recently filed charge sheets against Hasina and 52 others in connection with three separate corruption cases related to land allotment. All the accused are currently absconding.
Following this court decision, Hasina’s political opponents have found a fresh opportunity to target her. The court also issued arrest warrants against Hasina’s daughter, Saima Wazed Putul, and 16 others in connection with the Rajuk plot allocation case. On January 13, the ACC’s deputy director filed a case against Sheikh Hasina for allegedly acquiring a 10-katha plot in the Purbachal New Town Project by abusing her power. Two other individuals were later added to the case.
Last year, Bangladesh witnessed political turmoil and violent protests, eventually leading to the collapse of Hasina’s government. She reportedly fled to India and is currently under its protection. In her absence, the Bangladeshi military appointed Mohammad Yunus as the chief advisor to the interim government. The interim regime has formally requested India to hand over Sheikh Hasina. Meanwhile, several new cases have been filed against her in Bangladesh. After Hasina’s departure, reports emerged that the Hindu community in Bangladesh was also targeted. The interim government aims to prevent Hasina’s return to politics by ensuring her extradition from India.