Asif Nazrul: Most criminal cases filed to suppress July-August movement withdrawn

Law Adviser Prof Asif Nazrul has said nearly all criminal cases filed to suppress the student-led movement from July 1 to August 5 have been withdrawn.

He said this during a press conference at the Law Ministry on Tuesday, where he highlighted the ministry’s achievements over the past 100 days.

The adviser also said that the Cyber Security Act, 2023 is set to be repealed in the next advisory council meeting. This decision will lead to the withdrawal of all speech-related cases filed under the act, he added.

He said the Law Ministry has worked with the ICT Ministry and stakeholders to facilitate this repeal. However, cases related to hacking and cybercrimes will remain active, the adviser mentioned.

Asif Nazrul said significant progress has been made in judicial appointments, with five justices appointed to the Appellate Division, 23 to the High Court Division, and 109 to lower courts. Additionally, 4,300 law officers have been appointed in 61 districts, which he said will help expedite the dismissal of politically motivated and false cases.

“This unprecedented move will prevent the rampant ‘case business’ and arbitrary lawsuits that have plagued the system,” Asif Nazrul said.

He warned that those involved in such activities will face legal action, emphasizing: “I will ensure this during my tenure.”

To handle explosives-related cases for the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), 20 special public prosecutors have been appointed. Meanwhile, the International Crimes Tribunal has been restructured, with 11 prosecutors, including a Chief Prosecutor, appointed to accelerate trials for crimes against humanity, he noted.

The adviser also highlighted the final stages of amendments to the International Crimes (Tribunal) Act, 1973, based on recommendations from the Rome Statute and various human rights organizations. The amendments aim to ensure justice for atrocities committed during recent months and the previous regime, he added.

Asif Nazrul disclosed that asset declarations from ministry officials are being collected and verified. Additionally, a new law for appointing judges to the Appellate and High Court Divisions is expected to be drafted within two weeks, he said.

Addressing speculation about amendments targeting political parties, he said: “The court will not have direct authority for such trials but can recommend actions to relevant authorities if deemed necessary.”

The adviser said the government is committed to reforms to ensure fair elections. “The government wants to finalize reforms swiftly so advisers can return to their previous professions,” he added.

Asif Nazrul accused Sheikh Hasina of fleeing the country and endangering her party members. “She fled with her family days before, yet continues to put party workers at risk through phone calls,” he said, urging party members to question her motives.

Regarding ongoing movements, Nazrul said: “The government does not seek to replicate the Awami League’s repressive tactics. However, illogical protests causing public suffering are being monitored. If strict measures are required, they will be implemented effectively.”