The defense arguments have commenced in the war crimes and genocide case filed against deposed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and two others, related to the July-August student and public uprising. On Monday, October 20, state-appointed defense lawyer Md. Amir Hossain began presenting arguments on behalf of Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan. The prosecution concluded its arguments last Thursday, the fifth consecutive day of proceedings. Following that, the International Crimes Tribunal-1, led by Justice Md. Golam Mortuza Mojumdar, scheduled the defense phase for today. A total of 54 witnesses, including the investigation officer, journalist Mahmudur Rahman, and National Citizen Party convener Nahid Islam, testified for the prosecution. However, due to two key accused remaining absconding, no defense witnesses were presented. Meanwhile, testimony is also being heard today in another case at Tribunal-2 concerning the Ashulia six-body burning incident.