Testimony Alleges Internet Shutdown Roles of Joy and Palak in July Uprising Killings

IT expert and investigating officer Tanvir Joha testified against Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son and ICT adviser of the ousted prime minister, and former State Minister for ICT and Telecommunications Zunaid Ahmed Palak in connection with three charges, including ordering an internet shutdown and facilitating mass killings during the July mass uprising.

He delivered his testimony on Tuesday, March 3, before the International Crimes Tribunal.

In this case, a total of 17 individuals have been accused, including former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 10 senior military officials. Of the accused, 10 are currently in prison, while the remaining seven are still absconding.

During the July uprising, the then government reportedly shut down internet services nationwide in several phases to suppress the student-led mass movement. Allegations state that the internet shutdown was used to obstruct the flow of information and conceal widespread killings and human rights violations across the country. Under the current interim government, the alleged offenses have been categorized as crimes against humanity, and trial proceedings have commenced at the tribunal.

Sajeeb Wazed Joy served as ICT adviser to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The case alleges that the ICT Ministry shut down internet services in July and August 2024 in an attempt to hide information about mass killings from the international community. Among the alleged masterminds behind the move were Sajeeb Wazed Joy and Zunaid Ahmed Palak. It is further alleged that they provided full support to the commission of mass killings by enforcing internet blackouts during the protests.

The charges also state that Palak held consultations with Salman F Rahman, then adviser to the prime minister, regarding assistance in the alleged mass killings. They are accused of engaging in various conspiracies and planning related to the events.

DBTech/TZ/EK/OR