Chankharpul Massacre: Verdict Today, BTV to Broadcast Live

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-1 is set to deliver its verdict today regarding the killing of six people in the Chankharpul area during the July-August mass uprising.

In a historic move, the entire proceedings will be broadcast live on Bangladesh Television (BTV).

The three-member judicial panel, led by ICT-1 Chairman Justice Md. Golam Mortuza Majumder, is scheduled to announce the judgment this Tuesday (January 20).

Case Details and Defendants
The case involves eight defendants accused of crimes against humanity. Four are currently in custody:

• Md. Arshad Hossain: Former Inspector (Operations), Shahbagh Police Station.
• Md. Sujan Mia: Constable.
• Md. Imaz Hossain Emon: Constable.
• Md. Nasirul Islam: Constable.

The remaining four defendants are currently absconding:

• Habibur Rahman: Former DMP Commissioner.
• Sudip Kumar Chakraborty: Former Joint Commissioner.
• Shah Alam Md. Aktharul Islam: Former Additional Deputy Commissioner (Ramna Zone).
• Mohammad Imrul: Former Assistant Commissioner.

Background of the Incident
The charges stem from the events of August 5, 2024, when police opened fire on a peaceful student demonstration in the Chankharpul area.

The victims—Shahriar Khan Anas, Sheikh Junaid, Md. Yaqub, Md. Rakib Hawlader, Md. Ismamul Haque, and Manik Mia Shahrik—lost their lives in the crackdown.

The tribunal formally framed charges and initiated the trial on July 14, 2024, after finding prima facie evidence against the accused.

Following the conclusion of arguments from both the prosecution and the defense, the tribunal set January 20 as the date for the final verdict on December 24.