Bangladesh tribunal jails three journalists in July Uprising case

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal on Monday ordered journalists Shyamal Dutta, Mozammel Babu, and Farzana Rupa jailed after showing them arrested in a crimes against humanity case linked to July Uprising.

A two-member bench of International Crimes Tribunal-2, led by justice Md Monjurul Basid, also set Oct. 25 for submission of an investigation report.

Prosecutors alleged the three made provocative statements while questioning then prime minister Sheikh Hasina at a July 14, 2024, news conference at Gono Bhaban. They said Hasina later referred to protesters as “children of Razakars” and “grandchildren of Razakars,” and alleged crimes against humanity followed as a continuation of provocation.

Prosecutor Farooq Ahammad said production warrants were issued Aug. 17. Dutta is editor of Bhorer Kagoj, Babu was editor-in-chief of Ekattor TV, and Rupa was its principal correspondent.