Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed has decided to send several High Court judges, accused of corruption and collaborating with the Awami League government, on mandatory leave.
Multiple sources in the Supreme Court confirmed this information on Wednesday.
The judges include Justice Khandaker Diliruzzaman, Justice SM Maniruzzaman, Justice Shahed Nuruddin, Justice SM Masud Hossain Dolon and Justice Md Aminul Islam, reports Bangla Tribune.
Meanwhile, Hasnat Abdullah, a key coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, issued an ultimatum, demanding the removal of the pro-Awami League "fascist judges" by 2pm.
Students participating in a protest around the High Court were chanting various slogans in support of the demand.
Previously, the chief justice invited 12 High Court judges, accused of corruption and supporting the Awami League government, to tea. As a result, the chief justice’s schedule for the day was changed.
According to Supreme Court sources, several judges already responded to the tea invitation and met with the chief justice.
On the other hand, Hasnat, while calling for the removal of the 12 judges, also demanded the removal of Awami League-affiliated lawyers and the banning of the Chhatra League as a “terrorist” organization.
He warned that if the demands were not met by noon, the High Court would remain surrounded.
At noon, Hasnat issued the ultimatum after gathering in front of the Supreme Court Annex Building.
Earlier, a student procession entered the High Court premises demanding the resignation of the "fascist" judges. Around 11:30am, students from Dhaka University and nearby institutions gathered inside the High Court.
