The International Crimes Tribunal-1 has ordered the removal of photos and derogatory comments about its judges that have been circulating on social media, television and in newspapers following the verdict against ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and two others in a crimes against humanity case linked to the July–August Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.
The tribunal directed the BTRC chairman and the information secretary to ensure the removal of the content and to submit a compliance report by December 3.
The order was issued by the two-member Tribunal-1 bench led by Chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder on Sunday. The other member is retired district and sessions judge Md Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury.
On November 13, the tribunal sentenced Sheikh Hasina and Kamal to death and former IGP Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun to five years in prison in the case.
Following the verdict, derogatory remarks and edited images of the tribunal’s judges were allegedly circulated on various platforms — an issue that came to the tribunal’s attention. Acting suo moto, the bench ordered the authorities concerned to remove the content immediately.
The tribunal noted that while freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it must be exercised within the bounds of existing laws and without resorting to personal attacks.
Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam, Prosecutor Mizanul Islam, Gazi MH Tamim and others represented the prosecution, while lawyers for the accused were also present.
