Internet Shutdown and Mass killing : Charges Hearing Against Joy and Palak Deferred to January 11

The International Crimes Tribunal-1 has deferred the hearing on framing charges against Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former ICT Adviser, and former State Minister for ICT Zunayed Ahmed Palak, in a case involving crimes against humanity including killings allegedly committed during the July–August mass uprising by shutting down internet services nationwide.

On January 7 (Wednesday), the tribunal, chaired by Justice Md Shafiul Alam Mahmud, rescheduled the hearing for January 11 after the prosecution sought additional time to complete preparations and submit necessary documents for framing of charges. Palak was present before the tribunal, while Joy was shown as absconding.

According to the prosecution’s charge sheet, three specific and grave allegations have been brought against Joy and Palak. It is alleged that during the student-led mass movement, the two, following mutual consultations, deliberately ordered a nationwide internet shutdown to prevent images and information of civilian deaths caused by security forces from reaching the international community.

The charge sheet further states that they systematically spread false information claiming that protesting students had burned key internet infrastructure. However, investigations later found these claims to be completely baseless.

The tribunal has also decided to appoint a state defense counsel to represent absconding accused Sajeeb Wazed Joy in the proceedings.