The International Crimes Tribunal-2 on Thursday framed charges against 16 people accused over the killing and burning of six youths during the last year's July Uprising in Ashulia.
The decision came from a judicial panel led by Tribunal Chairman Justice Nazrul Islam Chowdhury. Formal trial proceedings have officially begun.
Eight of the accused were produced before the tribunal on Thursday, while eight others, including former Awami League lawmaker Saiful Islam, remained absconding.
Earlier on 7 August, prosecutors Mizanul Islam and Gazi MH Tamim concluded their submissions seeking indictment.
Defence arguments ended on 13 August, after which the tribunal fixed Thursday for the order.
Two state-appointed lawyers are representing the fugitives.
On 16 July, the tribunal ordered newspaper notices seeking their arrest.
On 2 July, prosecutors submitted a formal charge sheet against all 16 accused.
The dossier included 313 pages of evidence references, testimony from 62 witnesses, 168 pages of documentary exhibits, and two pen drives containing additional material.
The tribunal accepted the charges and issued arrest warrants for those still on the run.
The horrific incident took place on 5 August 2024 in Ashulia, where police allegedly shot six youth dead during anti-government protests and then placed their bodies in a police van before setting it on fire.
One of the victims was reportedly still alive when petrol was poured over him and he was burned to death.
On 11 September 2024, a case was filed with the International Crimes Tribunal accusing the perpetrators of crimes against humanity in connection with the attack.
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