Evidence Found in 2013 Shapla Chattar Deaths Probe

The investigation into the 2013 crackdown on a Hefajat-e-Islam rally at Dhaka’s Shapla Chattar is nearing completion, with a final report expected by June 7, according to officials.

Chief Prosecutor Aminul Islam said on Sunday that investigators have gathered strong evidence confirming at least 32 deaths during the operation carried out on May 5, 2013.

Speaking to reporters, he said the probe has also uncovered evidence of additional fatalities in Narayanganj, Chattogram, and other parts of the country linked to the same period of unrest.

The investigation, ongoing for around 18 months, is now focusing on identifying the roles of senior government officials and members of law enforcement agencies allegedly involved in the incident.

Officials also said evidence has been found regarding individuals who financed the operation, while members linked to political groups such as the Chhatra League and Jubo League are also under scrutiny.

The incident occurred during a large sit-in by Hefajat-e-Islam supporters at Shapla Chattar. Reports allege that after midnight, electricity supply to the area was cut before a joint force involving police, RAB, and BGB launched an operation using sound grenades, live ammunition, and batons to disperse protesters.

The case has remained one of the most debated incidents in Bangladesh’s recent history, raising concerns over human rights and state accountability.

More than 25 individuals are currently accused in the case, including former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Mohiuddin Khan Alamgir.

Other accused include former police chiefs Hasan Mahmud Khandakar and Shahidul Haque, former DMP commissioner Benazir Ahmed, and former RAB official Ziaul Ahsan. Arrest warrants have also been issued for 12 individuals, including former state minister Shamsul Haque Tuku and Ganojagaran Mancha spokesperson Imran H. Sarker, as proceedings move forward.