58 victims of Shapla Chattar killings identified: Chief prosecutor

Chief Prosecutor Aminul Islam today (5 May) said 58 people killed during the 2013 Hefazat-e-Islam's protests have been identified.

Besides, involvement of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other senior government officials has been found, he told reporters at the International Crimes Tribunal.

Aminul Islam said around 90% of the investigation into the case over the killing has been completed, and a formal report will be submitted to the tribunal by 7 June.

Sheikh Hasina would be the main accused in the Shapla Chattar case, he said.

He also said over 30 individuals may be included as accused in the case.

On 5 May, 2013, Hefazat-e-Islam launched "Dhaka blockade" program protesting alleged insults to the Holy Quran and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and demanding a 13-point agenda.

On that day, thousands of religious scholars, madrasa students and supporters gathered in Dhaka and later occupied the Shapla Chattar area in the capital's Motijheel.

A late-night joint forces operation was carried out after which the gathering was dispersed amid gunfire, tear gas and sound grenades. Numerous casualties were reported, although exact figures have long been disputed.

Different organisations have provided varying estimates of the death toll.

Hefazat-e-Islam published a preliminary list of 93 victims in 2025, while human rights group Odhikar reported 61 names in 2021.

A 2014 publication titled "Shahidnama" documented 41 deaths.

Despite 13 years having passed since the incident, the trial has not yet been completed.

However, the issue resurfaced following recent political changes.

After the July Uprising and formation of the interim government, Hefazat-e-Islam leader Azizul Haque Islamabadi filed a complaint with the International Crimes Tribunal naming Sheikh Hasina and several others as accused.

The complaint also includes the names of former ministers, senior security officials and police chiefs.