The protests, initially sparked by dissatisfaction over civil service quotas, evolved into a broader anti-government movement that led to Hasina’s ousting on August 5, 2025.
Read more: India, Brazil aim $20 billion trade over next five years, says PM Modi According to a report by UN human rights investigators, up to 1,400 people were killed during the 36-day unrest, making it the deadliest violence in Bangladesh since the 1971 Independence War.
New evidence cited in BBC report
The BBC report uncovered details of a police operation in Jatrabari, Dhaka, on August 5, in which at least 52 demonstrators were killed. Citing CCTV, drone footage, and eyewitness accounts, the report stated that police opened fire after army personnel withdrew from the area. Protestors were reportedly shot while fleeing through alleyways and highways.
“The recordings are critical for establishing her role, they are clear and have been properly authenticated, and are supported by other evidence,” British human rights barrister Toby Cadman, who is advising Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), was quoted as saying by the BBC.
Hasina’s Awami League party rejected the allegations, claiming the leaked call showed no “unlawful intention” or “disproportionate response,” and questioned the authenticity of the tape referenced by the BBC.
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Earlier audio clip mentioned by ANI
Another leaked audio clip surfaced earlier this year in which Hasina allegedly said, “There are 227 cases against me, so I have a licence to kill 227 people,” according to ANI. The CID has since confirmed the authenticity of that recording. The remark sparked widespread criticism and is now part of the case against her.
Ongoing trial and extradition efforts
On July 2, Bangladesh’s ICT sentenced Hasina to six months of imprisonment in a contempt of court case over comments related to the 2024 uprising.
She is currently being tried in absentia by the ICT on charges of incitement, conspiracy, and crimes against humanity including murder and mass violence.
Hasina has remained in self-imposed exile in India since August 2024.
According to ANI, the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Muhammad Yunus as Chief Advisor, is pursuing her extradition. “We have sent a letter. We will follow up if necessary,” Foreign Affairs Advisor Md Towhid Hossain told reporters on July 3. He confirmed that a formal request had been sent to the Indian government.
