Ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina -File photo

DHAKA, March 9, 2026 (BSS) - A court here has scheduled April 15 for the 
charge-framing hearing in a sedition case against ousted Prime Minister 
Sheikh Hasina and 285 others.

Dhaka Third Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge Moin Uddin Chowdhury 
passed the order, granting the defense's request for more time.

The case stems from allegations that the accused participated in anti-state 
activities and conspired to overthrow the interim government by joining a 
virtual "Joy Bangla Brigade" meeting on December 19, 2024. The meeting, 
reportedly attended by 577 participants worldwide, allegedly involved pledges 
to incite rebellion and restore Sheikh Hasina as prime minister.

Of the 286 accused, 259, including Sheikh Hasina, remain at large and are 
being tried in absentia. Notices were published in newspapers on October 14, 
2025, summoning the fugitives to appear in court.

Prominent accused include former MPs Sabina Akhter Tuhin, Pankaj Nath, Syeda 
Rubina Akter; US Awami League Vice-President Dr Rabbi Alam; Joy Bangla 
Brigade member Kabirul Islam; Bangladesh Chhatra League President Saddam 
Hossain; and several lawyers and academics.

The sedition case was filed by CID ASP Md Enamul Haque on March 27, 2025, 
after Home Ministry approval. A charge sheet against 286 individuals was 
submitted on August 14, 2025, which the court accepted, issuing arrest 
warrants against all accused.