The charge framing hearing in the trial of three alleged Razakar kingpins from Bagerhat, Abdul Latif Talukder, Sheikh Sirajul Haque alias Siraj Master and Khan Akram Hossain, started here on Tuesday at the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-1.
Prosecutor Syed Sayedul Haque Sumon took part in the hearing pleading for framing charges of crimes against humanity against the trio.
On the other hand, advocate Mohammad Abul Hasan, state-appointed defence counsel for Siraj Master opposed the prosecution submitting and pleaded for setting his client free.
But Barrister M Sarwar Hossain, counsel for Latif and Akram sought time for taking part in the charge framing hearing citing his need for taking necessary instructions from his clients. “Why did not you mention this earlier that you need more time? You can at least mention it at the start of the morning session. We are not being able to appreciate this attitude of yours,” said Justice M Enayetur Rahim, chairman of the two-member panel of ICT-1.
After that, the first tribunal adjourned the hearing till October 12.
Siraj Master, 72, Khan Akram Hossain, 61, and Abdul Latif Talukder, 68, three partners in 1971 crimes were recently detained after issuing of warrant to arrest them on June 10 by the ICT-1.
Meanwhile, the second tribunal set October 15 for start recording the deposition of defence witnesses in the trial of Jamaat leader Mawlana Abdus Subhan.
The ICT-2 set the date as advocate Mizanul Islam, counsel for Subhan, concluded cross-examining investigation officer Nur Hossain on Tuesday.
