Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)’s Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia has been acquitted in the 2015 sabotage case involving vandalism and arson in Cumilla's Chauddagram. The verdict was delivered by Judge Afroza Sheuly of Cumilla’s Additional District and Sessions Judge Court No. 1.
Public Prosecutor Kaimul Haque Rinku confirmed the court's decision to the media on Wednesday.
The case, filed on January 25, 2015, during a nationwide hartal, alleged vandalism and the arson of a covered van on the Dhaka-Chattogram highway in the Hyderpool area of Chauddagram upazila. Police initially named Khaleda Zia and 31 others as accused under the Special Powers Act. Later, 10 additional names were included in the charge sheet, bringing the total to 42.
Following a hearing on Monday, the court acquitted 36 individuals, including Khaleda Zia, citing a lack of evidence. Advocate Rinku stated that no concrete proof tied Khaleda Zia to the incident and that the case was politically motivated.
Of the remaining six accused, court sources revealed that decisions regarding their involvement will be deferred due to a stay order issued by the High Court.
This ruling marks a significant legal victory for Khaleda Zia, who was accused as the 32nd defendant in the case.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
