Death Sentence Looming Over Sheikh Hasina? Son Says Ex-PM Safe in India as Violence Rocks Bangladesh Ahead of Verdict

Introduction

Dhaka / New Delhi — Bangladesh is bracing for a turbulent moment as a special tribunal prepares to hand down a verdict against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, with her son warning that she could be sentenced to death. The developments come amid worsening political unrest marked by bomb blasts, arson, and mass protests.

Threat of Death Sentence

Sajeeb Wazed, Hasina’s son and political adviser, has publicly stated his conviction that the court will convict her — and probably hand down the death penalty. He expressed confidence in this line of thinking, saying that the verdict is being televised and that the decision has essentially already been made.

Hasina’s Safety in India

Despite the looming verdict, Wazed emphasized that Hasina is safe in India, where she currently lives in exile. He highlighted that Indian authorities are providing her “full security” and treating her “like a head of state.” He argued that with her location outside Bangladesh, she faces little personal risk from immediate legal consequences.

Escalating Political Tensions

• Bangladesh has already seen a surge in political violence ahead of the verdict. There have been reports of crude bombs exploding in Dhaka and widespread arson of vehicles.
• More than 400 Border Guards have been deployed across the country, security checkpoints tightened, and public gatherings restricted in a bid to prevent larger unrest.
• The Awami League, Hasina’s political party, has warned that it might block next year’s national elections if its party ban remains in place. Wazed has said that unless the party is allowed to contest, protests will intensify.

Why This Is Critical

The upcoming verdict comes at a highly sensitive time. Hasina is accused of crimes against humanity in connection with a crackdown on student-led protests in 2024 — protests that reportedly turned violent and led to hundreds of deaths. Her critics argue the tribunal is politically motivated, while her supporters view the trial as a threat to democracy in Bangladesh.

Wazed’s warnings and strong language make it clear that the Awami League is prepared to escalate its fight. He has stated that unless an elected government with his mother’s participation is installed, his camp may not accept the result peacefully.

Conclusion

Bangladesh today stands at a dangerous crossroads. A verdict that could sentence Sheikh Hasina to death — combined with growing civil unrest — threatens to plunge the country deeper into crisis. While Hasina remains in secure exile in India, fear and anger are building back home. As security forces prepare for further unrest, all eyes are on the tribunal’s decision and the possible fallout in the days ahead.