The International Crimes Tribunal-2 has ordered the start of the trial against two top leaders of the banned organization Chhatra League, President Saddam Hossain and General Secretary Sheikh Wali Asif Inan, on charges of crimes against humanity committed during the July Revolution. The three-member panel, led by Justice Nazrul Islam Chowdhury, rejected the defendants’ plea for discharge and formally framed charges against them. The tribunal also ordered trials for five other accused, including former Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader and several senior political figures.

Prosecutors Mizanul Islam and Gazi M.H. Tamim argued on January 18 that the accused bore individual responsibility for inciting and directing killings of protesters during July and August. Defense lawyers Lokman Hawlader and Ishrat Jahan denied any involvement, citing lack of evidence and seeking acquittal. The tribunal set January 22 for the order after hearing both sides.

The accused failed to appear on January 8 despite being ordered to surrender. Authorities later appointed state defense lawyers and issued public notices after unsuccessful arrest attempts in late December.