The defence in the trial against Jamaat-e-Islami leader ATM Azharul Islam has been given one hour today to conclude their arguments.
Defence counsel Abdus Subhan Tarafder yesterday argued on charges five and six. Later the International Crimes Tribunal 1 set today for placing arguments on legal points by Shishir Monir.
Tarafder placed arguments on the Rangpur Town Hall concentration camp and contradictions of the evidence placed by a rape victim. He first tried to say that the witness had not been credible. But later the lawyer said: “We are not saying that rapes did not take place during the Liberation War. But the accused was not involved with the incident [mentioned in the charge sheet].”
The prosecution concluded their part of arguments on August 26 seeking death for Azhar for his war time offences.
Meanwhile, state appointed defence counsel Abul Hasan cross examined the prosecution’s second witness in the case of fugitive accused Abdul Jabbar, a former Jatiya Party lawmaker.
Abdul Kuddus Matobbor, 59, testified at the tribunal on Monday.
After the end of cross-examination, defence lawyer Hasan pleaded for adjournment mentioning some “personal difficulties.” Prosecutor Jahid Imam tried to place objection since they had five more witnesses. The tribunal allowing the plea adjourned the trial until Monday.