A special tribunal in Dhaka has formally ordered the start of trial proceedings against deposed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 12 army officers, among 17 accused, in a case involving alleged abductions and torture at the Taskforce for Interrogation (TFI) cell. The three-member judicial panel, led by Chairman Golam Mortuza Majumdar, read out the charges and set January 21 for opening statements. Ten of the accused are currently in custody, while seven, including Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, remain fugitives. Defense lawyers for the present and absconding defendants pleaded for dismissal of charges, asserting their clients’ innocence. Prosecutor Gazi M.H. Tamim urged the tribunal to proceed, citing sufficient grounds for trial. The accused, including several senior military officers, denied all allegations when asked by the court. The case marks a significant legal development following the political upheaval that removed Hasina from power. Observers say the trial could have far-reaching implications for Bangladesh’s civil-military relations and accountability in state security operations.