2013 Shahbag protests#Sentencing of Delwar Hossain Sayeedi

{{See also|1971 Bangladesh atrocities|Razakars (Bangladesh)}}

From March to December 1971, East Pakistan engaged in a nine-month conflict against West Pakistan. The Indian Army, having provided guerrilla training to the Mukti Bahini, entered the war on 3 December 1971, supporting East Pakistan's liberation. The armed conflict culminated on 16 December 1971, with the surrender of the Pakistani Armed Forces to the joint force of Bangladesh and India in East Pakistan. This surrender marked the formation of the People's Republic of Bangladesh as an independent and sovereign nation.

According to the famous Blood telegram from the United States consulate in Dhaka (formerly known as 'Dacca') to the State Department, many atrocities had been committed by the Pakistan Army and its supporter Razakars and Al-Badar militia.{{cite web|work=U.S. Consulate (Dacca) Cable, Sitrep|url=http://www.gwu.edu/~nsarchiv/NSAEBB/NSAEBB79/BEBB6.pdf|title=Army Terror Campaign Continues in Dacca; Evidence Military Faces Some Difficulties Elsewhere|date=31 March 1971 |pages=3|access-date=22 August 2015|archive-date=21 December 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111221082405/http://www.gwu.edu/~nsarchiv/NSAEBB/NSAEBB79/BEBB6.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://2001-2009.state.gov/r/pa/ho/frus/nixon/e7txt/47241.htm|title=Document 125|website=2001-2009.state.gov|access-date=5 August 2018|archive-date=18 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130218023747/http://2001-2009.state.gov/r/pa/ho/frus/nixon/e7txt/47241.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://2001-2009.state.gov/r/pa/ho/frus/nixon/e7txt/47242.htm|title=Document 126|website=2001-2009.state.gov|access-date=5 August 2018|archive-date=25 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111025162717/http://2001-2009.state.gov/r/pa/ho/frus/nixon/e7txt/47242.htm|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://2001-2009.state.gov/r/pa/ho/frus/nixon/e7txt/47243.htm|title=Document 127|website=2001-2009.state.gov|access-date=5 August 2018|archive-date=25 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111025164849/http://2001-2009.state.gov/r/pa/ho/frus/nixon/e7txt/47243.htm|url-status=live}} Time reported a high-ranking US official as saying, "It is the most incredible, calculated killing since the days of the Nazis in Poland."{{cite magazine |date=2 August 1971 |title=Pakistan: The Ravaging of Golden Bengal |url=http://content.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,878408,00.html |magazine=Time |url-access=subscription |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=20 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160320052641/http://content.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,878408,00.html |url-status=live }} Estimates are that one to three million people were killed, nearly a quarter of a million women were raped and more than ten million people fled to India to escape persecution."3 MILLION Slaughtered Sheik MUJIB Charges 'Greatest Massacre'," The Portsmouth Herald, page 6, '17 January 1972, Portsmouth, New Hampshire{{cite news|title=Bangladesh war crimes stir tension|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7470000.stm|access-date=9 February 2013|date=30 June 2008|work=BBC News|first=Mark|last=Dummett|archive-date=18 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121218055557/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7470000.stm|url-status=live}}

A paramilitary force known as the Razakars was created by the May 1971 Razakar Ordinance promulgated by Tikka Khan, the governor of East Pakistan. The ordinance stipulated the creation of a volunteer force, trained and equipped by the provincial government.{{cite news |date=2 August 1971 |title=The East Pakistan Razakars Ordinance, 1971 |url=http://www.icsforum.org/library/files/420_GovernmentofEastPakistan1971.pdf |newspaper=The Dacca Gazette Extraordinary |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004235644/http://www.icsforum.org/library/files/420_GovernmentofEastPakistan1971.pdf |archive-date=4 October 2013}}

The majority of East Pakistanis supported the call to create a free and independent Bangladesh during the Liberation War. However, Pakistani supporters and members of Islamic political parties, particularly Jamaat-e-islami and its east Pakistan student wing Islami Chatra Sangha (ICS, {{langx|bn|ইসলামী ছাত্র সঙ্ঘ|Islami Chhatro Shônggho}}), the Muslim League, the Pakistan Democratic Party (PDP) Council and Nezam-e-Islami, collaborated with the Pakistani army to resist the formation of an independent Bangladesh. The students belonging to Islami Chatra Sangha were known as the Al-Badr force; people belonging to Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Muslim League, Nizam-e-Islami and similar groups were called Al-Shams, and the Urdu-speaking people (generally known as Bihari) were known as Al-Mujahid.{{cite news |last=Das |first=Tapos Kanti |date=11 May 2013 |title=Jamaat played proactive role in 1971 genocide: ICT-2 |url=http://newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-05-11&nid=48788#.Ukp8mT_bUWI |newspaper=The New Age|location=Dhaka |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131004221100/http://newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-05-11&nid=48788 |archive-date=4 October 2013}}

In November 1973 Sheikh Mujibur Rahman issued a general pardon for the war criminals during the liberation war.{{Cite book |last=Khan |first=Mushtaq H. |author-link=Mushtaq Khan (economist) |editor1-last=Panikkar |editor1-first=K. N. |editor2-last=Byres |editor2-first=Terence J. |editor3-last=Patnaik |editor3-first=Utsa |year=2002 |chapter=Class, Clientelism and Communal Politics in Contemporary Bangladesh |title=The Making of History: Essays Presented to Irfan Habib |location=London |publisher=Anthem Press |page=579 |isbn=1-84331-0538}} Under Ershad Jamaat-e-Islami participated in 1986 election. In the 1991 election, which was the first free and fair election after independence, Jamaat got 18 seats out of 300 and gained 12.2% of vote.[http://archive.ipu.org/parline-e/reports/2023_B.htm Electoral system] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171017120822/http://archive.ipu.org/parline-e/reports/2023_B.htm |date=2017-10-17 }} Inter-Parliamentary Union

In 1992, the distinguished Bangladeshi writer and political activist, Jahanara Imam, led the war-crime tribunal committee, Ekattorer Ghatak Dalal Nirmul Committee, advocating for the prosecution of Ghulam Azam, the leader of Jamaat-e-Islami and a convicted war criminal.{{Cite news |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269174 |title=Return of that famous letter |work=The Daily Star |access-date=8 March 2016 |archive-date=9 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309000246/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269174 |url-status=live }} On 26 March 1992, the committee organized mock trials in Dhaka, known as Gono Adalat (The People's Court), symbolically 'sentencing' individuals they accused of being war criminals.{{Cite news |url=http://newagebd.net/24794/jahanara-imams-death-anniversary-today/ |title=Jahanara Imam's death anniversary today |work=The New Age |language=en-GB |access-date=8 March 2016 |archive-date=22 October 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022195306/http://newagebd.net/24794/jahanara-imams-death-anniversary-today/ |url-status=live }}

In the 2001 general election, Bangladesh Nationalist party in coalition with Jamaat-e-Islami won the election.{{Cite news |url=http://edition.cnn.com/2001/WORLD/asiapcf/south/10/05/bangla.victory/index.html |title=Zia wins power in Bangladesh |date=5 October 2001 |work=CNN |access-date=27 December 2018 |archive-date=27 December 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181227181611/http://edition.cnn.com/2001/WORLD/asiapcf/south/10/05/bangla.victory/index.html |url-status=live }} From 2001 to 2003, the leader of Jamat-e-Islami Motiur Rahman Nizami served as the Minister of Agriculture, then as the Minister of Industry from 2003 to 2006,{{Cite news|title=End of Nizami|work=The Daily Star|url=https://www.thedailystar.net/frontpage/gallows-ready-nizami-1221937|access-date=2020-06-02|archive-date=2020-09-06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200906200602/https://www.thedailystar.net/frontpage/gallows-ready-nizami-1221937|url-status=live}} and general the secretary Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mojaheed served the Ministry of Social Welfare between 2001 and 2006.{{Cite news|date=18 November 2015|title=Like father, like son|work=The Daily Star|url=https://www.thedailystar.net/city/father-son-174292|access-date=2 June 2020|archive-date=6 September 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200906200615/https://www.thedailystar.net/city/father-son-174292|url-status=live}}

File:Old High Court Building Dhaka Bangladesh.jpg

{{See also| International Crimes Tribunal (Bangladesh)|International Crimes Tribunal Timeline}}

Since 2000, there has been growing demands in Bangladesh for justice related to war crimes committed during the 1971 struggle; the issue was central to the 2008 general election.

{{Cite news

| title = Dhaka body lists war criminals of 1971

| newspaper = The Indian

| date = 4 April 2008

| url = http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/dhaka-body-lists-war-criminals-of-1971_10034353.html

| access-date = 19 September 2010

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140704223548/http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/uncategorized/dhaka-body-lists-war-criminals-of-1971_10034353.html

| archive-date = 4 July 2014

| url-status = dead}}

{{Cite news

| last = Hussain

| first = Ahmede

| date = 11 July 2008

| title = Bangladesh's Unfinished Revolution

| url = http://archive.thedailystar.net/magazine/2008/07/02/ca.htm

| newspaper = Star Weekend Magazine

| publisher = The Daily Star

| location = Dhaka

| access-date = 19 September 2010

| archive-date = 11 May 2012

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20120511195609/http://www.thedailystar.net/magazine/2008/07/02/ca.htm

| url-status = live

}} The Awami League-led, 14-party Grand Alliance included this issue in its election manifesto. Its rival, four-party alliance (which included the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami) had several leaders alleged to have committed war crimes.[http://icsforum.org/mediarchive/2008/12/31/no-against-war-criminals-won/ "No against war criminals won"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413142131/http://icsforum.org/mediarchive/2008/12/31/no-against-war-criminals-won/ |date=2014-04-13 }}, The Daily Prothom Alo, 31 December 2008, collected from [http://icsforum.org/mediarchive/ ICSF Media Archive] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208005536/http://icsforum.org/mediarchive/ |date=2013-02-08 }}

The Grand Alliance won the election (held on 29 December 2008) with a two-thirds majority, based in part on its promise to prosecute alleged war criminals.Julhas Alam, "[https://www.theguardian.com/world/feedarticle/10005738 Bangladesh wrestles with trials from '71 war] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150306012145/http://www.theguardian.com/world/feedarticle/10005738 |date=2015-03-06 }}", The Guardian, 21 December 2011{{Cite news

| date = 30 December 2008

| title = A historic landslide for Hasina

| url = http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/election-2008/2008/12/30/a-historic-landslide-for-hasina

| newspaper = bdnews24.com

| location = Dhaka

| access-date = 19 September 2010

| archive-date = 4 March 2015

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150304223758/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/election-2008/2008/12/30/a-historic-landslide-for-hasina

| url-status = live

}}{{Cite news

| date = 30 December 2008

| title = Awami League wins Bangladesh election

| url = http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/12/30/bangladesh.elections/

| newspaper = CNN

| access-date = 19 September 2010

| archive-date = 5 March 2016

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160305090123/http://www.cnn.com/2008/WORLD/asiapcf/12/30/bangladesh.elections/

| url-status = live

}}

On 29 January 2009 the new Parliament unanimously passed a resolution to prosecute war criminals.{{cite news |date=30 January 2009 |title=JS passes proposal to try war criminals |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=73557 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117025931/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=73557 |url-status=live }} The government intended to use the 1973 law: the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act.{{cite web|title=Bangladesh Genocide Archive|url=http://www.genocidebangladesh.org/|work=genocidebangladesh.org|access-date=3 December 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100308004522/http://www.genocidebangladesh.org/|archive-date=8 March 2010|url-status=dead}} The government worked to amend the law, updating it and incorporating in it other nations' experience.{{cite news |date=26 March 2009 |title=War criminal trial under int'l crime act |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=81408 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117031725/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=81408 |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://www.lawcommissionbangladesh.org/reports/87.pdf|title=Opinion of the Law Commission on the technical aspects of the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973 (Act No. XIX of 1973)|access-date=19 September 2010|archive-date=13 July 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100713163602/http://www.lawcommissionbangladesh.org/reports/87.pdf|url-status=live}}{{Cite news

| date = 10 July 2009

| title = Law amended for war crime trials

| url = http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=96243

| newspaper = The Daily Star

| access-date = 13 November 2015

| archive-date = 4 March 2016

| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160304112147/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=96243

| url-status = live

}} The amendments provided the legal basis for the trial of individuals and political parties that had committed war crimes during Bangladesh liberation war. The government was empowered to appeal tribunal decisions.

On 25 March 2010, the Awami-led government announced the formation of a three-member tribunal, a seven-member investigation agency, and a twelve-member prosecution team to conduct the trials under the ICT Act 1973.{{cite news |last1=Manik |first1=Julfikar Ali |last2=Tusher |first2=Hasan Jahid |date=26 March 2010 |title=Stage set for war trial |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=131639 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=4 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304101409/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=131639 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |date=3 May 2012 |title=Prosecutor begins statement against SQ Chy |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2012/05/03/prosecutor-begins-statement-against-sq-chy |newspaper=Bdnews24 |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117023744/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2012/05/03/prosecutor-begins-statement-against-sq-chy |url-status=live }} The panel of three judges included Fazle Kabir and Zahir Ahmed, with Mohammed Nizamul Huq as chairman.{{cite news |title=We will wait, watch: Jamaat on war crimes trial |url=http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/politics/we-will-wait-watch-jamaat-on-war-crimes-trial_100339663.html |newspaper=Thaindian News |agency=IANS |date=26 March 2010 |access-date=10 February 2013 |archive-date=15 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130215081719/http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/politics/we-will-wait-watch-jamaat-on-war-crimes-trial_100339663.html |url-status=dead }} Abdul Matin, Abdur Rahim, Kutubur Rahman, Shamsul Arefin, Mir Shahidul Islam, Nurul Islam and M. Abdur Razzak Khan were appointed to assist the state prosecutors.{{cite news |title=War Crimes Tribunal constituted, prosecutors, investigation agency named |url=http://www.unbconnect.com/component/news/task-show/id-17173 |newspaper=UNBconnect |date=25 March 2010 |access-date=10 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120405174001/http://www.unbconnect.com/component/news/task-show/id-17173 |archive-date=5 April 2012 |url-status=dead }} Golam Arif Tipu was named Chief Prosecutor. Others prosecutors were Syed Rezaur Rahman, Golam Hasnayen, Rana Das Gupta, Zahirul Huq, Nurul Islam Sujan, Syed Haider Ali, Khandaker Abdul Mannan, Mosharraf Hossain Kajal, Zead Al Malum, Sanjida Khanom, and Sultan Mahmud Semon.

A formal charge was filed by the prosecution against Abdul Quader Mollah on 18 December 2011. He was charged with:{{cite news |date=6 February 2013 |title=Summary of verdict in Quader Mollah case |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268072 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=9 February 2013 |archive-date=12 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130412230949/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268072 |url-status=live }}

• The Pallab murder
• Killing pro-liberation poet Meherunnesa, her mother and two brothers
• The Khandoker Abu Taleb killing
• The Ghatar Char and Bhawal Khan Bari killings
• The Alubdi mass killing (344 people)
• The rape and murder of Hazrat Ali and his family

On 5 February 2013, the ICT found Mollah guilty of crimes against humanity.{{cite news|title=Bangladesh jails Islamic party leader for life|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/feb/05/bangladesh-jails-islamic-leader|access-date=6 February 2013|newspaper=The Guardian|date=5 February 2013|location=London|archive-date=31 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131031060616/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/feb/05/bangladesh-jails-islamic-leader|url-status=live}} The day before the verdict was announced, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami announced a nationwide dawn-to-dusk general strike for 5 February in protest of their leader's conviction.{{cite news|title=66 held during violence-marred Jamaat strike|url=http://bdnews24.com/politics/2013/02/05/66-held-during-violence-marred-jamaat-strike|access-date=8 February 2013|newspaper=BDNews24|date=5 February 2013|archive-date=14 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131214140146/http://bdnews24.com/politics/2013/02/05/66-held-during-violence-marred-jamaat-strike|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Habib|first=Haroon|date=16 February 2013|title=At Shahbagh, Bangladesh's fourth awakening|url=http://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/at-shahbagh-bangladeshs-fourth-awakening/article4419445.ece|access-date=17 February 2013|newspaper=The Hindu|location=Chennai, India|archive-date=29 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129074318/https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/at-shahbagh-bangladeshs-fourth-awakening/article4419445.ece|url-status=live}}

Over several days, protesters increased their demands, asking for:

• Death penalty for Mollah{{cite news |date=8 February 2013 |title=Huge Bangladesh rally seeks death penalty for War Crimes |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21383632 |work=BBC News |access-date=9 February 2013 |archive-date=23 February 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220223004923/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21383632 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Alam |first=Julhas |date=8 February 2013 |title=Hundreds of thousands rally in Bangladesh to demand executions of 1971 war crimes suspects |url=https://www.thestar.com/news/world/2013/02/08/hundreds_of_thousands_rally_in_bangladesh_to_demand_executions_of_1971_war_crimes_suspects.html |newspaper=Toronto Star |agency=Associated Press |access-date=9 February 2013 |archive-date=11 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130211034148/http://www.thestar.com/news/world/2013/02/08/hundreds_of_thousands_rally_in_bangladesh_to_demand_executions_of_1971_war_crimes_suspects.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=Protesters continue to demand death penalty for Bangladesh war criminal Abdul Quader Mollah|url=http://www.newstrackindia.com/newsdetails/2013/02/08/332-Protesters-continue-to-demand-death-penalty-for-Bangladesh-war-criminal-Abdul-Quader-Mollah.html|access-date=9 February 2013|newspaper=newstrackindia|date=8 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214013910/http://www.newstrackindia.com/newsdetails/2013/02/08/332-Protesters-continue-to-demand-death-penalty-for-Bangladesh-war-criminal-Abdul-Quader-Mollah.html|archive-date=14 February 2013|url-status=dead}}
• Death sentences for those convicted of war crimes by the International War Crimes Tribunal{{cite news|title=Teeming thousands chant 'Hang them all'|url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/08/teeming-thousands-chant-hang-them-all|access-date=9 February 2013|newspaper=Bdnews24.com|date=8 February 2013|archive-date=11 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130211004716/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/08/teeming-thousands-chant-hang-them-all|url-status=live}}{{cite news |last=Alam |first=Julhas |date=8 February 2013 |title=Bangladesh Protest Calls for Death for War Crimes |url=https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/bangladesh-protest-calls-death-war-crimes-18440258 |newspaper=ABC News |agency=Associated Press|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130211104158/https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/bangladesh-protest-calls-death-war-crimes-18440258 |archive-date=11 February 2013 |access-date=9 February 2013}}{{cite news|title=Nationwide protests in B'desh; death for war criminals demanded|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/south-asia/nationwide-protests-in-b-desh-death-for-war-criminals-demanded_827899.html|access-date=9 February 2013|newspaper=zeenews|date=9 February 2013|archive-date=12 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130212090615/http://zeenews.india.com/news/south-asia/nationwide-protests-in-b-desh-death-for-war-criminals-demanded_827899.html|url-status=live}}
• A ban of Jamaat from Bangladeshi politics{{cite news|title=Cry for Jamaat ban|url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/08/cry-for-jamaat-ban|access-date=9 February 2013|newspaper=Bdnews24.com|date=8 February 2013|archive-date=11 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130211011528/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/08/cry-for-jamaat-ban|url-status=live}}
• A boycott of Jamaat institutions{{cite news |date=9 February 2013 |title=Vow to boycott Jamaat institutions |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=44637 |newspaper=The Daily Star |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130211042327/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=44637 |archive-date=11 February 2013 |access-date=9 February 2013}}

Protest began right after the verdict was announced. Student organizations started the protest immediately after the Judgement in the Shahbagh square.{{cite news |date=6 February 2013 |script-title=bn:মৃত্যুদণ্ড না হওয়ায় হতাশা, ক্ষোভ |url= http://www.prothom-alo.com/detail/date/2013-02-06/news/327133 |newspaper= Prothom Alo |language=bn |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130209181506/http://www.prothom-alo.com/detail/date/2013-02-06/news/327133 |archive-date=9 February 2013 |access-date=12 February 2013}} On 7 February, demonstrations began at 8 am. Thousands of people gathered with banners, posters, Bangladeshi flags and placards in Shahbagh with their demands.{{cite news |date=6 February 2013 |title=Protest gets social media boost |newspaper=BDNews24 |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/06/protest-gets-social-media-boost |access-date=8 February 2013 |archive-date=10 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130210031311/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/06/protest-gets-social-media-boost |url-status=live }} On Friday afternoon, a mass rally was held at Shahbagh with an estimated attendance of more than 100,000.

On 12 February, protesters observed three minutes of silence at 4 pm at Shahbagh and all across Bangladesh.{{cite web|url=http://www.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne+News/Asia/Story/A1Story20130212-401658.html|title=Bangladesh falls silent for execution of war criminals|website=www.asiaone.com|access-date=5 August 2018|archive-date=5 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180805203811/http://www.asiaone.com/News/AsiaOne+News/Asia/Story/A1Story20130212-401658.html|url-status=live}} In Dhaka, traffic was stopped as thousands of people took to the streets, formed human chains and stood in silence. A Bangladesh Premier League game at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium halted for three minutes, as players and supporters observed the silence. Parliamentarians and the police also joined the protest.{{cite news |date=12 February 2013 |title=A silence stronger than words |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=44729 |newspaper=The Daily Star |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130213172050/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=44729 |archive-date=13 February 2013}} Bengali singer Kabir Suman wrote a song entitled "Tin Minit" ("Three Minutes") in honour of the silent protest.{{cite web |last=Suman |first=Kabir |title=Tin Minit (Three Minutes) |url=http://www.kabirsumanonline.com/home/2013/02/13/tin-minit-three-minutes/ |work=kabirsumanonline.com |access-date=13 February 2013 |archive-date=14 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214064444/http://www.kabirsumanonline.com/home/2013/02/13/tin-minit-three-minutes/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |date=13 February 2013 |script-title=bn:সুমনের 'তিন মিনিট' |trans-title=Tin Minute of Suman |url=http://www.prothom-alo.com/detail/date/2013-02-13/news/328989 |newspaper=Prothom Alo |language=bn |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130216101957/http://www.prothom-alo.com/detail/date/2013-02-13/news/328989 |archive-date=16 February 2013 |access-date=2 March 2013}}

On 21 February, International Mother Language Day, the number of protesters reached a new high. Its leadership declared 26 March 2013, the Independence Day of Bangladesh, as the deadline for the government to ban Jamaat-e-Islami from politics.{{cite news |title=Act before March 26 |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/news-detail-270029 |newspaper=The Daily Star |date=22 February 2013 |access-date=27 December 2016 |archive-date=28 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161228032205/http://www.thedailystar.net/news-detail-270029 |url-status=live }}File:Shahbag Projonmo Square Uprising Demanding Death Penalty of the War Criminals of 1971 in Bangladesh 09.jpg]]Seven protesters began a fast until death on 26 March at 10:30 pm in front of the National Museum, protesting "inadequate government action" to ban Jamaat in response to the Shahbagh protesters' ultimatum.{{cite news |date=28 March 2013 |title=Shaheed Rumi Squad begins fast-unto-death for ban on Jamaat |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/shaheed-rumi-squad-begins-fast-unto-death-for-ban-on-jamaat/ |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117031710/http://archive.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/shaheed-rumi-squad-begins-fast-unto-death-for-ban-on-jamaat/ |url-status=live }} The protesters said at a press briefing that they would send an open letter to Prime Minister Hasina during the 100th hour of their protests.{{cite news |date=30 March 2013 |title=Rumi Squad urges students to hold token hunger strike |url=http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-03-31&nid=44609#.UVeEl6vF2WU |newspaper=The New Age|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413124954/http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-03-31&nid=44609#.UVeEl6vF2WU |archive-date=13 April 2014}} More than 100 organizations expressed solidarity with the hunger strikers.{{cite news |date=30 March 2013 |title=Rumi Squad continues fast unto death |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/rumi-squad-continues-fast-unto-death/ |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117020746/http://archive.thedailystar.net/beta2/news/rumi-squad-continues-fast-unto-death/ |url-status=live }}

{{see also|2013 Bangladesh riots|2013 Bangladesh Anti-Hindu violence}}

On 28 February the International Crimes Tribunal sentenced Delwar Hossain Sayeedi, Nayeb-e-Ameer (vice-president) of Jamaat-e-Islami,{{cite news |date=27 February 2013 |title=Sayedee verdict Thursday |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=45073 |newspaper=The Daily Star |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130301112709/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=45073 |archive-date=1 March 2013 |access-date=2 March 2013}} to death for convictions on 8 out of 20 charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity committed during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.{{cite news |last1=Manik |first1=Julfikar Ali |last2=Khan |first2=Mahbubur Rahman |date=1 March 2013 |title=Gallows for Sayedee |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=270923 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=2 March 2013 |archive-date=24 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130424041958/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=270923 |url-status=live }}

Jamaat followers were enraged by the decision, claiming that the case against Sayeedi was politically motivated. His lawyer, Abdur Razzaq, accused authorities of preventing a key witness from testifying and intentionally slanting the process.{{cite news |author=Julfikar Ali Manik |author2=Jim Yardley |date=1 March 2013 |title=Death Toll From Bangladesh Unrest Reaches 44 |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/02/world/asia/death-toll-from-bangladesh-unrest-hits-42.html |url-status=live |access-date=1 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228182638/https://www.nytimes.com/2013/03/02/world/asia/death-toll-from-bangladesh-unrest-hits-42.html |archive-date=28 December 2022}} "This is a perverse judgment. It is inconceivable that a court of law awarded him a conviction. This prosecution was for a political purpose", Razzaq said. Jamaat quickly called for a nationwide two-day strike, to start on 3 March. By afternoon, violence led by Jamaat-e-Islami supporters had erupted across Bangladesh. "The Jamaat-e-Islami is fighting for its political survival", said a spokesperson. By the end of the day thirty-five people were dead, including three police officers;{{cite news |last1=Devnath |first1=Arun |last2=MacAskill |first2=Andrew |date=1 March 2013 |title=Clashes Kill 35 in Bangladesh After Islamist Sentenced to Hang |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-02-28/bangladesh-sentences-islamist-leader-to-death-amid-dhaka-protest |newspaper=Bloomberg Business |access-date=1 March 2013 |archive-date=1 October 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151001011143/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2013-02-28/bangladesh-sentences-islamist-leader-to-death-amid-dhaka-protest |url-status=live }} an additional eight hundred were injured. According to the BBC, it marked "the worst day of political violence in Bangladesh in decades".{{cite news |title=Bangladesh war crimes verdict sparks more violence |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21626843 |work=BBC News |date=1 March 2013 |access-date=1 March 2013 |archive-date=2 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130302071332/http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21626843 |url-status=live }}

Clashes between police and Jamaat-e-Islami workers continued on 1 March, spreading to the northern districts of Gaibandha and Chapai Nawabganj. Opposition leader Khaleda Zia criticised government and called for a demonstration in the capital, Dhaka. Security measures were increased to prevent the situation from escalating. The death toll rose to forty-four (including six policemen). Former prime minister and BNP member Khaleda Zia declared a nationwide dawn-to-dusk strike for 5 March, and called for countrywide rallies on 2 March to protest what she called government corruption, misrule, oppression, and "mass killings".

Violent conflict continued on 2 March, with another four deaths and hundreds of injuries.{{cite news|title=4 dead, hundreds injured as riots continue in Bangladesh|author=Naim-Ul-Karim|agency=Xinhua|date=2 March 2013|url=http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/world/2013-03/02/c_124408068.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130307162833/http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/world/2013-03/02/c_124408068.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=7 March 2013|access-date=2 March 2013}} In Chittagong district police opened fire on Jamaat-e-Islami protesters, leading to three deaths. In Nilphamari, a young person died in a clash between protesters and police.

On 3 March, violence continued as the Jamaat-organised strike began. In Bogra Jamaat supporters attacked police outposts with sticks and homemade bombs, leading to at least eight deaths.{{cite news |title=Bangladesh deaths rise as Jamaat protest strike begins |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21646233 |work=BBC News |date=3 March 2013 |access-date=3 March 2013 |archive-date=29 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129045457/https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-21646233 |url-status=live }} In Godagari two deaths were reported in a similar incident, and three deaths were reported in the Joypurhat district. Violence continued in Chittagong as well, where Jamaat claimed that police opened fire without provocation. The government denied the charge, saying that violence against citizens and police would not be tolerated; three deaths were reported. "People in the street are very, very afraid of Jamaat-e-Islam. I am scared", reported an eyewitness in Dhaka. Jamaat supporters were accused of attacking Hindu citizens and their homes in many parts of the country, and torching Hindu temples.{{cite news|url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/28/jamaat-men-attack-hindus-in-noakhali|title=Jamaat men attack Hindus in Noakhali|work=bdnews24|date=28 February 2013|access-date=5 March 2013|archive-date=2 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130302223248/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/28/jamaat-men-attack-hindus-in-noakhali|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/south-asia/stop-violence-against-hindus-bangladeshi-daily_832809.html|title=Stop violence against Hindus: Bangladeshi daily|work=Zee News|date=4 March 2013|access-date=5 March 2013|archive-date=5 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130305112532/http://zeenews.india.com/news/south-asia/stop-violence-against-hindus-bangladeshi-daily_832809.html|url-status=live}} More than 40 temples and many statues were destroyed and scores of houses set ablaze, leaving hundreds of people homeless throughout the country.{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/south-asia/44-killed-in-bangladesh-violence/article4465210.ece|title=44 killed in Bangladesh violence|work=The Hindu|date=1 March 2013|access-date=5 March 2013|location=Chennai, India|first=Haroon|last=Habib|archive-date=5 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130305103227/http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/south-asia/44-killed-in-bangladesh-violence/article4465210.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news |date=5 March 2013 |title=Bangladesh: Khaleda Zia condemns attacks on Hindus, demands probe |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/Bangladesh-Khaleda-Zia-condemns-attacks-on-Hindus-demands-probe/articleshow/18808024.cms |work=The Times of India |access-date=5 March 2013 |archive-date=5 March 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130305094012/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/south-asia/Bangladesh-Khaleda-Zia-condemns-attacks-on-Hindus-demands-probe/articleshow/18808024.cms |url-status=live }}

Amnesty International has urged the Bangladeshi government to provide better protection for minority Hindus.{{cite news|title=Bangladesh: Wave of violent attacks against Hindu minority|url=https://www.amnesty.org/en/for-media/press-releases/bangladesh-wave-violent-attacks-against-hindu-minority-2013-03-06|access-date=9 March 2013|newspaper=Amnesty International|date=6 March 2013|archive-date=9 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130309203359/http://www.amnesty.org/en/for-media/press-releases/bangladesh-wave-violent-attacks-against-hindu-minority-2013-03-06|url-status=dead}} Abbas Faiz, the organization's Bangladesh researcher, has noted that the attacks on the Hindu community were a shocking development in the recent history of Bangladesh.{{cite news|title=Amnesty calls for protecting Hindus|url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/03/07/amnesty-for-hindu-protection|access-date=9 March 2013|date=7 March 2013|archive-date=10 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130310061037/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/03/07/amnesty-for-hindu-protection|url-status=dead}}

{{Further|An Open Letter from Shah Ahmad Shafi to the Government and the Public}}

File:Press Club Chittagong.jpg]]

The Shahbagh protests has attracted people from all walks of life. The Shahbagh intersection at the centre of the protests has been referred to as "Generation Circle" ({{langx|bn|প্রজন্ম চত্ত্বর}} Projônmo Chôttor) or "Shahbagh Square", in a nod to the events which unfolded in Tahrir Square, Cairo. The protest spread from Shahbagh to other parts of the country, with sit-ins and demonstrations in Chittagong, Rajshahi, Khulna, Sylhet, Barisal, Mymensingh, Rajbari, Rangpur, Comilla, Bogra, Narayanganj, Sunamganj, Noakhali and Narsingdi.{{cite news |date=7 February 2013 |title=Protests rage for third day over Bangladeshi war crimes Islamist |work=Reuters |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-bangladesh-protest-verdict-idUSBRE9160SG20130207 |access-date=5 July 2021 |archive-date=17 May 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210517105135/https://www.reuters.com/article/us-bangladesh-protest-verdict-idUSBRE9160SG20130207 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Preetha |first=Sushmita S |date=7 February 2013 |title=Thousands join Shahbagh sit-in |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268142 |access-date=7 February 2013 |archive-date=7 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130407100537/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268142 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Ahmed |first=Anis |date=6 February 2013 |title=Protesters demand death for Bangladesh war crimes Islamist |url=http://in.reuters.com/article/bangladesh-verdict-war-idINDEE9150CS20130206 |newspaper=Reuters |access-date=7 February 2013 |archive-date=28 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200628230933/https://in.reuters.com/article/bangladesh-verdict-war-idINDEE9150CS20130206 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news |date=7 February 2013 |title=People burst into protests |url=http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-02-07&nid=39332 |newspaper=The New Age|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413142430/http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-02-07&nid=39332#.VkYR93arQ-U |archive-date=13 April 2014 |access-date=7 February 2013}}

State Minister for Law, Quamrul Islam, said that the verdict against Abdul Quader Mollah could have been different if people had taken to the streets sooner.[http://news.priyo.com/2013/02/06/verdict-could-be-dif-67138.html "Verdict could be different if people took to streets earlier: Quamrul"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130210023010/http://news.priyo.com/2013/02/06/verdict-could-be-dif-67138.html |date=10 February 2013 }}, News The government is planning to file appeals with the Supreme Court contesting the sentence for Mollah.{{cite news |last=Sarkar |first=Ashutosh |date=9 February 2013 |title=Govt, defence ready to file appeals |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268455 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117015518/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268455 |url-status=live }} On 11 February the Cabinet approved proposed amendments to the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act 1973, introducing a provision for plaintiffs to appeal verdicts handed down by the tribunal. This amendment, if passed, would enable the state to appeal Mollah's life sentence.{{cite news |date=12 February 2013 |title=Provision for appeal endorsed: Cabinet okays change to war crimes trial act |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268783 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117025036/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268783 |url-status=live }}

Jamaat-e-Islami, which was already staging protests against the impending trial of its leaders, called for a general strike.{{cite news |date=8 February 2013 |title=Jamaat calls hartal in Ctg for tomorrow |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268297 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117015212/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268297 |url-status=live }} Jamaat continues to demand that the international war crimes tribunal be stopped and its party leaders freed. Jamaat supporters had staged nationwide demonstrations with increasing frequency from November 2012 to February 2013, demanding the release of its leaders.{{cite news|last=Farid|first=Ahmed|title=Bangladesh war crimes verdict protests turn deadly|url=http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/15/world/asia/bangladesh-protests|access-date=21 February 2013|newspaper=CNN|date=16 February 2013|archive-date=21 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130221025619/http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/15/world/asia/bangladesh-protests|url-status=live}} Actions included firing gunshots, smashing and setting fire to vehicles and detonating homemade bombs.{{cite news|url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/01/28/jamaat-shibir-attack-policemen-across-country|title=Jamaat, Shibir attack policemen across country|work=bdnews24.com|date=28 January 2013|access-date=8 February 2013|archive-date=31 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130131112237/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/01/28/jamaat-shibir-attack-policemen-across-country|url-status=live}}{{cite news |date=6 February 2013 |title=Jamaat, Shibir attack police in Khulna |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/06/jamaat-shibir-attack-police-in-khulna |newspaper=bdnews24.com |access-date=7 February 2013 |archive-date=7 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130207133700/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/06/jamaat-shibir-attack-police-in-khulna |url-status=live }}{{cite news |date=7 February 2013 |title=Jamaat, Shibir men torch 2 vehicles in Ctg |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=44610 |newspaper=The Daily Star |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208050606/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/latest_news.php?nid=44610 |archive-date=8 February 2013 |access-date=8 February 2013}} Violence was targeted at police stationed in the capital, Dhaka, and major cities such as Rajshahi,{{cite news |date=29 January 2013 |title=Jamaat-Shibir men go on rampage |url=http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-01-29&nid=38329#.USW6UmQ-uDA |newspaper=The New Age|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220082722/http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-01-29&nid=38329 |archive-date=20 December 2013 |access-date=21 February 2013}} Cox's Bazar,{{cite news|title=Jamaat-Shibir let loose terror in several districts|url=http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=153126|access-date=21 February 2013|newspaper=The Independent|date=28 January 2013|archive-date=20 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220204121/http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=153126|url-status=live}} Chittagong,{{cite news|title=Three shot dead in Ctg during Jamaat-Shibir hartal|url=http://theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=154379|access-date=21 February 2013|newspaper=The Independent|date=5 February 2013|archive-date=20 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131220204532/http://theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=154379|url-status=live}} Rangpur,{{cite news |title=40 injured in police and Jamaat-Shibir clash in Rangpur |work=Bangladesh Sangbad Snagstha(BSS)}} Dinajpur{{cite news |title=Jamaat turns violent, clash with cops across country; 168 injured |url=http://www.unbconnect.com/component/news/task-show/id-93752 |work=UNBconnect |access-date=21 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150617214953/http://www.unbconnect.com/component/news/task-show/id-93752 |archive-date=17 June 2015 |url-status=dead }} and Khulna.{{cite news |date=11 November 2012 |title=Jamaat, Shibir clash with police across country |url=http://newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2012-11-11&nid=29724#.UR7AoaU81C8 |access-date=21 February 2013 |newspaper=The New Age|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204212216/http://newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2012-11-11&nid=29724#.UR7AoaU81C8 |archive-date=4 December 2013}}{{cite news |date=14 February 2013 |title=Jamaat rampage continues |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269041 |access-date=21 February 2013 |newspaper=The Daily Star |archive-date=21 December 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131221094116/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269041 |url-status=live }} Several Jamaat-Shibir political activists were arrested during the strikes and confrontations with police.

Bangladeshis abroad have expressed solidarity with the protests through social media websites Facebook and Twitter. Demonstrations of solidarity have also taken place in Australia,{{cite news |last=Haque |first=Enamul |date=18 February 2013 |title=Sydney students are with Shahbag |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269469 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=20 February 2013 |archive-date=18 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130218152643/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269469 |url-status=live }} Malaysia,{{cite web|url=http://www.timesworld24.com/cat-news-details.php?id=13220#.URaRVx1cjuy|title=timesworld24.com-last updated news::কাদের মোল্লার ফাঁসি : আন্দোলন মালয়েশিয়াতেও|access-date=5 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160318170815/http://www.timesworld24.com/cat-news-details.php?id=13220#.URaRVx1cjuy|archive-date=18 March 2016|url-status=dead}} Germany,{{cite news |title=Cologne joins Shahbag in solidarity |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/16/cologne-joins-shahbag-in-solidarity |newspaper=bdnews24.com |date=16 February 2013 |access-date=20 February 2013 |archive-date=21 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130221013703/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/16/cologne-joins-shahbag-in-solidarity |url-status=live }} and the United States.

Bangladeshis in New York City joined in a symbolic protest on 9 February at Diversity Plaza in Jackson Heights.{{cite news|url=http://www.firstpost.com/topic/place/bangladesh-bangladesh-people-protest-in-jackson-height-newyork-video-JGNzD85VH88-1247-1.html|title=Bangladesh Photo Gallery: Latest Pictures, Best News Photos, Images about on Bangladesh|work=Firstpost|access-date=5 August 2018|archive-date=24 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924161650/http://www.firstpost.com/topic/place/bangladesh-bangladesh-people-protest-in-jackson-height-newyork-video-JGNzD85VH88-1247-1.html|url-status=live}} A mass sit-in was organised by the Bangladeshi community in Sydney on 10 February at the International Mother Language Monument in Sydney Ashfield Park.{{cite news |date=11 February 2013 |title=Expats express solidarity with Shahbagh protestors |url=http://www.bssnews.net/newsDetails.php?cat=0&id=312616&date=2013-02-11 |newspaper=Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117014359/http://www.bssnews.net/newsDetails.php?cat=0&id=312616&date=2013-02-11 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |url-status=dead }} At a rally at the Angel Statue in Melbourne, demonstrators signed a petition to Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina demanding death for war criminals.{{cite news |date=11 February 2013 |title=Bangladeshis in Melbourne express solidarity with Shahbag protests |url=http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-02-11&nid=39771 |newspaper=The New Age|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413124957/http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-02-11&nid=39771 |archive-date=13 April 2014}}File:Candle light vigil Shahbag - Stuttgart.jpg]]On 10 February, Bangladeshi students gathered at Rutgers University in New Jersey to express solidarity with the Shahbagh protests. Bangladeshi students at the University of Delaware and nearby residents demonstrated their solidarity with the Shahbagh movement on 15 February at a busy intersection in Newark, Delaware. A candlelight vigil was held that evening for Rajib, a blogger and human rights activist who was killed several hours before the demonstration.{{cite news |title=Shahbagh protester killed |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/15/blogger-murdered-in-dhaka |newspaper=bdnews24.com |access-date=2013-02-16 |archive-date=2013-02-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130218034604/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/15/blogger-murdered-in-dhaka |url-status=live }}

In London, protesters at Altab Ali Park in solidarity for Shahbagh were attacked by Jamaat-e-Islami supporters. Protests are held at the park every week by both sides.{{cite news |last=Cohen |first=Nick |date=17 February 2013 |title=The agonies of Bangladesh come to London |url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/feb/17/bagladeshi-protests-reflected-londons-east-end?INTCMP=SRCH |newspaper=The Guardian |access-date=14 March 2013 |quote=The conflict between the Shahbag and Jamaat has already reached London. On 9 February, local supporters of the uprising demonstrated in Altab Ali Park, a rare patch of green space off the Whitechapel Road in London's East End. They were met by Jamaatis. "They attacked our men with stones," one of the protest's organisers told me. "There were old people and women and children there, but they still attacked us." |archive-date=14 April 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140414030007/http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/feb/17/bagladeshi-protests-reflected-londons-east-end?INTCMP=SRCH |url-status=live }}

On 18 February British Foreign Office minister Sayeeda Warsi hailed the Shahbagh Square protests, describing them as peaceful, productive and non-violent.{{cite news |title=UK minister praises Shahbagh protests |url=http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156517:uk-minister-praises-shahbagh-protests&catid=129:frontpage&Itemid=121 |newspaper=The Independent |location=Dhaka |date=20 February 2013 |access-date=10 March 2013 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117024718/http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156517:uk-minister-praises-shahbagh-protests&catid=129:frontpage&Itemid=121 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=UK Minister hails Shahbagh demo |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/18/uk-minister-hails-shahbagh-demo |newspaper=bdnews24.com |date=18 February 2013 |access-date=10 March 2013 |archive-date=21 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130221030508/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/18/uk-minister-hails-shahbagh-demo |url-status=live }} An article in the Fletcher Forum of World Affairs by Suzannah Linton on 27 February expressed concern about "bloodlust in Bangladesh" and called on the international community to steer the process towards international standards.{{cite news |date=27 February 2013 |title=Bloodlust in Bangladesh: A Search for Justice Gone Wrong |url=http://www.fletcherforum.org/2013/02/27/linton/ |newspaper=The Fletcher Forum of World Affairs |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140413140607/http://www.fletcherforum.org/2013/02/27/linton/ |archive-date=13 April 2014 |url-status=dead}}

File:Shahbag Projonmo Square Uprising Demanding Death Penalty of the War Criminals of 1971 in Bangladesh 14.jpg

International media outlets such as BBC, CNN, Al Jazeera English, The New York Times, and The Independent have published numerous reports and articles on the protests,{{cite news|author=Philip Hensher |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/the-war-bangladesh-can-never-forget-8501636.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220501/https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/the-war-bangladesh-can-never-forget-8501636.html |archive-date=1 May 2022 |url-access=subscription |title=The war Bangladesh can never forget |work=The Independent |location=London |date=19 February 2013 |access-date=5 March 2013}}{{cbignore}}{{cite news |title=Thousands in Bangladesh war crimes protest |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/02/201327181442185887.html |work=Al Jazeera English |date=7 February 2013 |access-date=8 February 2013 |archive-date=7 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130207200133/http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/02/201327181442185887.html |url-status=live }} with BBC Bangla closely monitoring and documenting the events.{{cite news |last=Sabbir |first=Mir |date=9 February 2013 |script-title=bn:বাংলাদেশে যুদ্ধাপরাধীদের ফাঁসির দাবিতে শাহবাগে পঞ্চম দিনের মতো বিক্ষোভ চলছে |trans-title=Follow up of the events by BBC Bangla |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/bengali/news/2013/02/130208_fa_shahbag.shtml |work=BBC Bangla |language=bn |access-date=9 February 2013 |archive-date=8 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208211729/http://www.bbc.co.uk/bengali/news/2013/02/130208_fa_shahbag.shtml |url-status=live }}{{cite news |date=7 February 2013 |script-title=bn:শাহবাগের বিক্ষোভ থেকে একজন |trans-title=Interview with a protester from Shahbagh |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/bengali/multimedia/2013/02/130207_pg_activist_shahbagh_intv.shtml |work=BBC Bangla |language=bn |access-date=9 February 2013 |archive-date=8 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130208211221/http://www.bbc.co.uk/bengali/multimedia/2013/02/130207_pg_activist_shahbagh_intv.shtml |url-status=live }} Additionally, Reuters photographer Andrew Biraj published live photographs from the massive Shahbagh demonstrations.{{cite news |last=Ahmed |first=Anis |date=8 February 2013 |title=Bangladeshi war crimes protesters turn anger towards feuding politicians |url=https://www.reuters.com/article/us-bangladesh-protest-verdict-idUSBRE9170NR20130208 |work=Reuters |access-date=1 April 2013 |archive-date=11 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160311025708/http://www.reuters.com/article/us-bangladesh-protest-verdict-idUSBRE9170NR20130208 |url-status=live }}

Social media played a crucial role in disseminating news globally about events at Shahbagh.{{cite news|title=Shahbagh 'battle' now on cyber space|url=http://bdnews24.com/tech/2013/02/10/shahbagh-battle-now-on-cyber-space|access-date=4 April 2013|newspaper=bdnews24.com|date=10 February 2013|archive-date=12 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130212212846/http://bdnews24.com/tech/2013/02/10/shahbagh-battle-now-on-cyber-space|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Shahbag protesters versus the Butcher of Mirpur|url=https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/feb/13/shahbag-protest-bangladesh-quader-mollah|access-date=4 April 2013|newspaper=The Guardian|date=13 February 2013|location=London|first=Tahmima|last=Anam|archive-date=6 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131206145334/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/feb/13/shahbag-protest-bangladesh-quader-mollah|url-status=live}} A Facebook event was created, calling for a protest at Shahbagh, resulting in the formation of the viral human chain on 5 February 2013.{{cite news |title=Defiant crowd battles propaganda war |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/11/defiant-crowd-battles-propaganda-war |newspaper=bdnews24 |date=11 February 2013 |access-date=4 March 2013 |archive-date=14 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214051343/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/11/defiant-crowd-battles-propaganda-war |url-status=live }} Facebook served as one of the primary sources of information about the Shahbagh protests among its activists. Bangladeshis utilized the X (formally Twitter) hashtag [https://x.com/search?q=%23shahbag #shahbag] to provide live updates on the movement.{{cite news |last=Prokopp |first=Christian |date=9 February 2013 |title=Shahbag online |url=http://www.clickittefaq.com/sci-tech/shahbags-online-pulse/ |newspaper=The Daily Ittefaq |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117032751/http://www.clickittefaq.com/sci-tech/shahbags-online-pulse/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Prokopp |first=Christian |date=15 February 2013 |title=Shahbag outcry |url=http://www.clickittefaq.com/sci-tech/shahbag-outrcy/ |newspaper=The Daily Ittefaq |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117021112/http://www.clickittefaq.com/sci-tech/shahbag-outrcy/ |url-status=live }}

File:2013 December 11 at Shahbag.jpg, circa 11 December 2013.]]

The demonstration exerted pressure on the government, prompting amendments to the International Crimes Tribunal Act to facilitate the swift execution of war criminals upon conviction. The cabinet established a 60-day limit for the Supreme Court's Appellate Division to adjudicate appeals, ensuring expeditious case progress.{{cite news |last=Alam |first=Shafiq |date=12 February 2013 |title=Bangladesh approves law to swiftly execute war criminals |url=http://sg.news.yahoo.com/bangladesh-approves-law-swiftly-execute-war-criminals-175452869.html |agency=Agence France-Presse |access-date=13 February 2013 |archive-date=29 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129082417/https://sg.news.yahoo.com/bangladesh-approves-law-swiftly-execute-war-criminals-175452869.html |url-status=live }} In response to widespread protests, Jute and Textiles Minister Abdul Latif Siddiqui announced on 12 February that a bill is in the drafting stage to prohibit Jamaat-e-Islami from participating in Bangladeshi politics.{{cite news |date=12 February 2013 |title=Bill to ban Jamaat on way |url=http://bdnews24.com/politics/2013/02/12/bill-to-ban-jamaat-on-way |access-date=13 February 2013 |archive-date=14 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214013319/http://bdnews24.com/politics/2013/02/12/bill-to-ban-jamaat-on-way |url-status=live }}

On 17 September 2013, the Bangladesh Supreme Court found Abdul Quader Mollah guilty of several counts of premeditated murder and war crimes which were committed during the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War and ordered his execution. He was subsequently executed on 12 December 2013.{{cite web |url=http://www.supremecourt.gov.bd/web/case_history/case_history.php?div_id=1&case_id=601845 |title=Criminal Appeal(A) 24/2013 |website=Supreme Court of Bangladesh |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150617213155/http://www.supremecourt.gov.bd/web/case_history/case_history.php?div_id=1&case_id=601845 |archive-date=17 June 2015}}

• During the movement, protesters used various slogans. These included "Ekta ekta Shibir dhor, dhoira dhoira jobai kor." ("Catch Shibir activists one by one, and slaughter them."),{{Cite news|date=8 November 2019|title=The Orwellian dystopia in Bangladesh|work=southasinjournal|url=http://southasiajournal.net/the-orwellian-dystopia-in-bangladesh/|access-date=5 June 2020|archive-date=4 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604191455/http://southasiajournal.net/the-orwellian-dystopia-in-bangladesh/|url-status=live}}{{cite news |title=A CALL TO RISE |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/magazine/2013/02/04/cover.htm |newspaper=The Daily Star |date=16 February 2013 |access-date=21 August 2018 |archive-date=19 May 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220519151653/http://archive.thedailystar.net/magazine/2013/02/04/cover.htm |url-status=dead }}{{citation|title=Debunking the Propaganda: Allama Shafi 'viral' video|url=http://www.talukdershaheb.com/2013/07/14/debunking-the-propaganda-allama-shafi-viral-video|author=Talukder Shaheb|date=14 July 2013|access-date=21 August 2018|archive-date=26 May 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200526081926/http://www.talukdershaheb.com/2013/07/14/debunking-the-propaganda-allama-shafi-viral-video/|url-status=usurped}}{{Cite news|date=8 March 2013|script-title=bn:কার ঘরে শাহবাগ আন্দোলনের ফসল|language=bn|trans-title=Who did make success from Shahbag protest?|work=banglanews24|url=https://www.banglanews24.com/opinion/news/bd/180035.details|access-date=4 June 2020|archive-date=4 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604200805/https://www.banglanews24.com/opinion/news/bd/180035.details|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|date=21 February 2013|script-title=bn:শাহবাগ কি বিপ্লব|language=bn|trans-title=Is Shahbag a revolution?|work=bdnews24.com|url=https://opinion.bdnews24.com/bangla/archives/8152|access-date=4 June 2020|archive-date=19 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220519151557/https://opinion.bdnews24.com/bangla/archives/8152|url-status=live}} "Rajakarer chamra, kutta diya kamra." ("Make dogs chew on the skin of razakars."), among others, which were accused of promoting violence.{{cite news |date=18 March 2013 |title=The trees and forests of projonmno chottor |newspaper=The Daily Star |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/news/the-trees-and-forests-of-projonmno-chottor |access-date=15 February 2020 |archive-date=29 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129082417/https://www.thedailystar.net/news/the-trees-and-forests-of-projonmno-chottor |url-status=live }} Threats were directed against academic Piash Karim for his stance against the tribunals.,{{Cite news |title=Give space to opposing voices |url=https://en.prothomalo.com/opinion/Give-space-to-opposing-voices |access-date=2022-03-20 |work=Prothom Alo |type=Opinion |language=en |archive-date=2023-12-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208061345/https://en.prothomalo.com/opinion/Give-space-to-opposing-voices |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |title=History as Ethical Remembrance: Dhaka University, Shaheed Minar and CP Gang's 'Bessha' Banner Part: I and II {{!}} Rahnuma Ahmed |url=https://www.newageislam.com/islamterrorism-jihad/rahnuma-ahmed/history-ethical-remembrance-dhaka-university-shaheed-minar-cp-gangs-bessha-banner-part-i-ii/d/105247 |access-date=2022-03-20 |website=www.newageislam.com |language=en}} while boycotts and death threats were declared against Asif Nazrul,{{Cite news |date=2013-12-27 |title=Asif Nazrul warned to shun talk-show or be killed |url=http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-05-25&nid=50359 |access-date=2022-03-20 |work=New Age |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131227003647/http://www.newagebd.com/detail.php?date=2013-05-25&nid=50359 |archive-date=27 December 2013 |url-status=dead}} Farhad Mazhar and Motiur Rahman Chowdhury.
• The Awami League fully supported the prosecution of the individuals who were responsible for the genocide and war crimes committed during the 1971 War of Liberation.{{Cite web |date=2011-05-19 |title=Bangladesh: Unique Opportunity for Justice for 1971 Atrocities {{!}} Human Rights Watch |url=https://www.hrw.org/news/2011/05/19/bangladesh-unique-opportunity-justice-1971-atrocities |access-date=2023-12-08 |language=en |archive-date=2023-03-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230328091408/https://www.hrw.org/news/2011/05/19/bangladesh-unique-opportunity-justice-1971-atrocities |url-status=live }} Since the beginning of the war tribunal proceedings held by the International Crimes Tribunal, which consisted of a three-member judge, a seven-member investigation agency, and a twelve-member prosecution team, 83 individuals have been prosecuted, with 52 receiving the death penalty.{{cite news |title=Eight years of war crimes trials |url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/war-crimes/2018/08/18/eight-years-of-war-crimes-trials |newspaper=Dhaka Tribune |date=18 August 2018 |access-date=9 September 2019 |archive-date=5 September 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190905085606/http://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/war-crimes/2018/08/18/eight-years-of-war-crimes-trials |url-status=live }} Many critics argue that the movement was partially orchestrated by the government to garner public support for the prosecution of the right-wing Jamaat-e-Islami leaders, thereby consolidating power 42 years after the war.{{Cite web |title=Bangladesh hangs Jamaat-e-Islami leader for war crimes |url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/5/11/bangladesh-executes-motiur-rahman-nizami-for-war-crimes |access-date=2023-12-08 |website=Al Jazeera |language=en |archive-date=2022-12-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221217205924/https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2016/5/11/bangladesh-executes-motiur-rahman-nizami-for-war-crimes |url-status=live }}
• On 25 October 2014, a Shahbagh movement's leader named Mahmudul Haque Munshi attempted to hurl a shoe at the vehicle carrying the coffin of Golam Azam after his funeral.{{cite news |title=Shoes hurled at hearse carrying Ghulam Azam's body |url=https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2014/10/25/shoes-hurled-at-hearse-carrying-ghulam-azams-body |newspaper=bdnews24.com |date=25 October 2014 |access-date=21 August 2018 |archive-date=29 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129082417/https://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2014/10/25/shoes-hurled-at-hearse-carrying-ghulam-azams-body |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Return of the shoe |url=https://www.thedailystar.net/return-of-the-shoe-47404 |newspaper=The Daily Star |date=26 October 2014 |access-date=21 August 2018 |archive-date=29 January 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220129082450/https://www.thedailystar.net/return-of-the-shoe-47404 |url-status=live }} Shahbagh protesters called for boycotting institutions run by Jamaat-e-Islam political leaders such as Islami Bank and Retina Coaching Centre.{{cite news |date=18 March 2013 |title=Rajshahi AL leader in Dhaka hospital |url=https://bdnews24.com/politics/2013/03/18/rajshahi-al-leader-in-dhaka-hospital |newspaper=bdnews24.com |access-date=13 February 2020 |archive-date=13 February 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200213093743/https://bdnews24.com/politics/2013/03/18/rajshahi-al-leader-in-dhaka-hospital |url-status=live }}{{cite news |date=9 February 2013 |title=The oath |url=http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268449 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 November 2015 |archive-date=17 November 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151117025125/http://archive.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268449 |url-status=live }} The Bangladesh Chhatra League was accused of coercing students from various residential halls of the University of Dhaka to join the rallies. Mass protests were held, urging the boycott of certain right-wing media outlets critical of the war tribunals, which included Diganta Television, Daily Naya Diganta, Amar Desh, and The Daily Sangram,{{Cite news|date=7 May 2013|title=Diganta, Islamic TV off air|work=The Daily Star|url=https://www.thedailystar.net/news/diganta-islamic-tv-off-air|access-date=4 June 2020|archive-date=4 June 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604185949/https://www.thedailystar.net/news/diganta-islamic-tv-off-air|url-status=live}}
• Shahbagh is home to many important, national and largest hospitals in Dhaka City, including BIRDEM General Hospital, Ibrahim Medical College.{{cite web |title=Sahbag Google maps |url=https://www.google.com/maps/@23.738842,90.3959443,19z |website=Google Maps |access-date=15 February 2020 |archive-date=6 September 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200906231026/https://www.google.com/maps/@23.738842,90.3959443,19z |url-status=live }} The prolonged blockade of this crucial and sensitive road by protesters for over a month was accused of causing substantial suffering for patients.{{Cite news |date=18 March 2013 |script-title=bn:শাহবাগের সড়কগুলো বন্ধ কেন? |language=bn |trans-title=Why does the Shahbag road is blocked? |work=Prothom Alo |url=http://archive.prothom-alo.com/detail/date/2013-03-18/news/337480 |url-status=dead |access-date=5 June 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200604185948/http://archive.prothom-alo.com/detail/date/2013-03-18/news/337480 |archive-date=4 June 2020}}

File:Sahbag.jpgIn the wake of Abdul Quader Molla's life imprisonment sentence on 5 February, the Shahbagh protests unfolded with increasing intensity, expanding beyond Shahbagh Square to other cities and towns.

• 5 February - Abdul Quader Molla is sentenced to life imprisonment. Initial gathering of protesters in Shahbagh Square (also known as Shahbagh Circle).
• 6–7 February - Protests intensify, crowds grow bigger, other cities and towns pick up protest. Bangladeshi diaspora and student communities abroad also begin to express solidarity with the protest.
• 8 February - Hundreds of thousands attend afternoon rallies in Shahbagh and nationwide. Dr Muhammed Zafar Iqbal and others address the crowds.
• 9–10 February - Protest continues countrywide.
• 12 February - A 3 minute silence is observed in Shahbagh and all across the country.{{cite news|title=4011 3-minute silence observed |url=http://www.banglanews24.com/English/detailsnews.php?nssl=1d5a8f3fc1cd6456ce1ff397a430363f&nttl=120220136 |newspaper=banglanews24.com |date=12 February 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130407181144/http://www.banglanews24.com/English/detailsnews.php?nssl=1d5a8f3fc1cd6456ce1ff397a430363f&nttl=1202201364011 |archive-date=7 April 2013 |url-status=dead }}{{cite news|title=Nation observes 3-minute silence Tuesday |url=http://www.banglanews24.com/English/detailsnews.php?nssl=b4d6cca6f8d9376fd31be2a6c28f308b&nttl=1102201363959 |newspaper=banglanews24.com |date=11 February 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130407181628/http://www.banglanews24.com/English/detailsnews.php?nssl=b4d6cca6f8d9376fd31be2a6c28f308b&nttl=1102201363959 |archive-date=7 April 2013 |url-status=dead }} Shibir attempts to disrupt with a mid-day rally which quickly turns violent as they use guns and bombs against police.{{cite news |title=Shibir unleashes quick terror |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268905 |newspaper=The Daily Star |date=13 February 2013 |access-date=13 February 2013 |archive-date=14 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214043135/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268905 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Hasan |first=Rashidul |date=13 February 2013 |title=Anarchy, not rally |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268909 |newspaper=The Daily Star |access-date=13 February 2013 |archive-date=14 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130214043421/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=268909 |url-status=live }}
• 15 February - Protester and blogger Ahmed Rajib Haider is killed. Haider had actively participated in the protest from the beginning and had written several blogs against Jamaat-e-Islami activities.{{cite news|title=Bangladesh war crimes trial: Blogger killed, violence escalates|url=http://www.firstpost.com/world/bangladesh-war-crimes-trial-blogger-killed-violence-escalates-628197.html|access-date=21 February 2013|newspaper=The First Post|date=17 February 2013|archive-date=19 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130219085408/http://www.firstpost.com/world/bangladesh-war-crimes-trial-blogger-killed-violence-escalates-628197.html|url-status=live}}
• 16 February - Thousands of people from all professions gather at Shahbagh wearing black badges to show their respect on the death of Ahmed Rajib Haider. By touching the coffin, protesters swear not to return home leaving their demands unfulfilled.{{cite news|title=Shahbagh protesters vow to avenge blogger's killing|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/south-asia/shahbagh-protesters-vow-to-avenge-bloggers-killing/article4422248.ece|access-date=21 February 2013|newspaper=The Hindu|date=16 February 2013|archive-date=20 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130220194636/http://www.thehindu.com/news/international/south-asia/shahbagh-protesters-vow-to-avenge-bloggers-killing/article4422248.ece?|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Grief turns into strength|url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269403|access-date=21 February 2013|newspaper=The Daily Star|date=17 February 2013|archive-date=20 February 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130220094522/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269403|url-status=live}}
• 17 February - Various schools in Dhaka hoist the national flag and sing the national anthem to express solidarity with Shahbagh protesters. The Shahbagh activists announce a "grand rally" to be held on 21 February and reiterate their demand of death penalty for war criminals.{{cite news |title=Shahbagh protests: National flag hoisted, national anthem sung in city schools |url=http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156084:protesters-vow-to-take-revenge-on-rajibs-killers&catid=187:online-edition&Itemid=223 |newspaper=The Independent |location=Dhaka |date=17 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222090217/http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156084:protesters-vow-to-take-revenge-on-rajibs-killers&catid=187:online-edition&Itemid=223 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Shahbagh campaigners announce new plan, to stage mass rally on Feb 21 |url=http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156334:shahbagh-campaigners-announce-new-plan-to-stage-mass-rally-on-feb-21&catid=187:online-edition&Itemid=223 |newspaper=The Independent |location=Dhaka |date=18 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222152751/http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156334:shahbagh-campaigners-announce-new-plan-to-stage-mass-rally-on-feb-21&catid=187:online-edition&Itemid=223 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Shahbagh mass rally Feb 21 |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/18/shahbagh-mass-rally-feb-21 |newspaper=bdnews24 |date=18 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222110705/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/18/shahbagh-mass-rally-feb-21 |url-status=live }}
• 18 February - The Shahbagh protests continues for the 14th day. Khelafat Andolon and Islami Oikya Jote demand the death penalty for top bloggers (Omi Rahman Pial, Ibrahim Khalil, Arif Jebtik and Asif Mohiuddin) of the ongoing Shahbagh movement.{{cite news |title=Shahbagh vigil calls for fighting Jamaat unitedly |url=http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156394:shahbagh-vigil-calls-for-fighting-jamaat-unitedly&catid=129:frontpage&Itemid=121 |newspaper=The Independent |location=Dhaka |date=19 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222120401/http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156394:shahbagh-vigil-calls-for-fighting-jamaat-unitedly&catid=129:frontpage&Itemid=121 |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Islamic groups demand death penalty to Shahbagh bloggers |url=http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156447:demo-in-ctg-for-death-penalty-of-anti-islam-bloggers&catid=187:online-edition&Itemid=223 |newspaper=The Independent |location=Dhaka |date=19 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222112750/http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156447:demo-in-ctg-for-death-penalty-of-anti-islam-bloggers&catid=187:online-edition&Itemid=223 |url-status=live }}
• 19 February - British foreign office minister Baroness Sayeeda Warsi praises the Shahbagh Square protest, describing it as peaceful and productive. Shahbagh protesters vow to spread their movement to the grassroots level by making 'Gonojagoron Mancha' (mass-upsurge stage) like Shahbagh square at every corner of the country.{{cite news |title=Shahbagh activists to take movement to grassroots level |url=http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156559:shahbagh-activists-to-take-movement-to-grassroots-level&catid=129:frontpage&Itemid=121 |newspaper=The Independent |location=Dhaka |date=20 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222120800/http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156559:shahbagh-activists-to-take-movement-to-grassroots-level&catid=129:frontpage&Itemid=121 |url-status=live }}
• 20 February - Alleged "smear campaign" against Shahbagh activists, branding them as anti-Islamic and anti-social elements by appealing to the religious sentiments of the people and at the same time trying to brand Haider as an atheist to justify his murder.{{cite news |title=Out with a new trick? |url=http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269751 |newspaper=The Daily Star |date=20 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=23 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130223010557/http://www.thedailystar.net/newDesign/news-details.php?nid=269751 |url-status=live }}
• 21 February - After the movement ran for two weeks, with huge participation from masses of people, in the grand rally at Shahbagh held on 21 February 2013 in the afternoon, Dr. Imran H Sarker presents six demands before the people. An intelligence agency releases a message to the news media and law enforcement agencies which states that some "anti-state elements" will try to carry out destructive activities including suicide bomb attacks on places like Shahbagh, Shaheed Minar and Baitul Mukarram. Law enforcement agencies arrest several Jamaat-e-Islami leaders and Shibir political activists carrying explosives and planning to attack Shaheed Minar.{{cite news |title=Massive sabotage feared this month |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/21/massive-sabotage-feared-this-month |newspaper=bdnews24 |date=21 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222115628/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/21/massive-sabotage-feared-this-month |url-status=live }}
• 22 February - Shahbagh Ganajagaran Mancha calls for nationwide protest just 1 day after calling off their demonstration at Shahbagh. This happens after Jamaat political and radical Islamists went on a rampage in Dhaka city, clashing with police and attacking them with bombs and stones.{{cite news |title=Jamaat activists go berserk in capital |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/22/jamaat-activists-go-berserk-in-capital |newspaper=bdnews24 |date=22 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222103059/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/22/jamaat-activists-go-berserk-in-capital |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=Four killed, over 250 hurt in violent clashes |url=http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156982:four-killed-over-250-hurt-in-violent-clashes&catid=129:frontpage&Itemid=121 |newspaper=The Independent |location=Dhaka |date=22 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222092734/http://www.theindependentbd.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=156982:four-killed-over-250-hurt-in-violent-clashes&catid=129:frontpage&Itemid=121 |url-status=live }} Jamaat Islamists destroy the Sylhet Central Shaheed Minar setting on fire the national flag of Bangladesh and flowers.{{cite news |title=Jamaat activists' attack Sylhet Shaheed Minar |url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/22/jamaat-activists-attack-sylhet-shaheed-minar |newspaper=bdnews24 |date=22 February 2013 |access-date=20 December 2015 |archive-date=22 December 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222121027/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/02/22/jamaat-activists-attack-sylhet-shaheed-minar |url-status=live }}
• 6 March - The Shahbagh protests has completed in one month. What started from the bloggers and online activists, has turned into a mass uprising, spread across the country to people from all walks of life, and among the expatriate Bangladeshis.{{cite news|title=Shahbagh movement completes one month|url=http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/03/06/shahbagh-movement-completes-one-month|access-date=8 March 2013|newspaper=bdnews24.com|date=6 March 2013|archive-date=10 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130310084810/http://bdnews24.com/bangladesh/2013/03/06/shahbagh-movement-completes-one-month|url-status=live}}

{{See also|Shahbagi}}

In March 2025, an organisation called the Anti-Shahbagi Alliance staged a protest in Shahbag by bathing a cow named 'Shahbagi' and arranging mass-iftar to symbolize their opposition to the 2013 Shahbag protests.{{cite news|title=শাহবাগে গরু এনে গোসল করানো হচ্ছে, নাম 'শাহবাগী'

|url=https://www.bd24live.com/bangla/756323?utm_source=chatgpt.com|access-date=13 March 2025|newspaper=bd24live.com|date=13 March 2025}}{{cite news|title='শাহবাগী' গোসল কর, সন্ধ্যায় গণ-ইফতার

|url=https://www.jaijaidinbd.com/politics/538411|access-date=13 March 2025|newspaper=Jaijaidin|date=13 March 2025}} On 12 March, 2025, a group of students from the Jahangirnagar University staged a protest against mob justice and judicial killings, chanting slogans such as "We haven't forgotten the martyrs of Shapla," and "L for Lucky, you are Hasina, you are Hasina."{{cite news|title="শাহবাগী রাজাকার, এই মুহূর্তে বাংলা ছাড়"|url=https://www.banglaedition.com/education/2025/03/12/236585?utm_source=chatgpt.com|access-date=12 March 2025|newspaper=Bangla Edition|date=12 March 2025}} Zahidul Islam, President of Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir, accused the Shahbagis of making Sheikh Hasina the 'Godmother of Fascism' in Bangladesh.{{cite news|title='হাসিনাকে গডমাদার অব ফ্যাসিজম' হিসেবে তৈরি করেছে শাহবাগীরা|url=https://www.dhakapost.com/politics/350364|access-date=12 March 2025|newspaper=Dhaka Post|date=12 March 2025}}{{cite news|title=বিচার চাই না, ফাঁসি চাই বলে ফ্যাসিবাদ কায়েম করেছিল শাহবাগীরা

|url=https://www.jagonews24.com/politics/news/1007418|access-date=12 March 2025|newspaper=Jagonews24|date=12 March 2025}} Hasnat Abdullah cautioned against attempting to revert to the political climate of 2013 in 2025, emphasizing the need for justice for past injustices.{{cite news|title=শাহবাগীদের সতর্ক করে হাসনাত আবদুল্লাহ'র পোস্ট

|url=https://www.ittefaq.com.bd/722904/%E0%A6%B6%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%B9%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%97%E0%A7%80%E0%A6%A6%E0%A7%87%E0%A6%B0-%E0%A6%B8%E0%A6%A4%E0%A6%B0%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%95-%E0%A6%95%E0%A6%B0%E0%A7%87-%E0%A6%B9%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%B8%E0%A6%A8%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%A4-%E0%A6%86%E0%A6%AC%E0%A6%A6%E0%A7%81%E0%A6%B2%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%B2%E0%A6%BE%E0%A6%B9-%E0%A6%B0-%E0%A6%AA%E0%A7%8B%E0%A6%B8%E0%A7%8D%E0%A6%9F|access-date=12 March 2025|newspaper=দৈনিক ইত্তেফাক|date=12 March 2025}}

On March 13, 2025, Mahfuj Alam, Adviser for Information and Broadcasting, urged an end to the indiscriminate labeling of individuals as ‘Shahbagi’ out of political vendetta. He emphasized ideological struggle over exclusion, and called for unity in post-uprising Bangladesh.{{cite news|title=হরেদরে সবাইকে শাহবাগী বলা বন্ধ করতে হবে: মাহফুজ আলম

|url=https://www.jugantor.com/index.php/national/928310|access-date=13 March 2025|newspaper=Jugantor|date=13 March 2025}}{{cite news|title=রাজনৈতিক প্রতিহিংসা থেকে হরে-দরে সবাইকে 'শাহবাগী' বলা বন্ধ করতে হবে: মাহফুজ আলম|url=https://www.prothomalo.com/politics/rv13eu9n22|access-date=13 March 2025|newspaper=Prothom Alo|date=13 March 2025}}

{{clear}}

{{gallery

|title=Domestic

|width=180

|height=170

|File:Shahbag_Projonmo_Square_Uprising_Demanding_Death_Penalty_of_the_War_Criminals_of_1971_in_Bangladesh_25.jpg|alt1=Protesters at night, with torches|Protesters in Shahbag

|File:Shahbag_Projonmo_Square_Uprising_Demanding_Capital_Punishment_of_the_War_Criminals_of_1971_in_Bangladesh.jpg|alt2=Seated protesters, holding placards|Placards with demands

|File:Shahbag Circle (Projanmo Chattar), Dhaka, Bangladesh 2013-02-14 Nasir Khan.jpg|alt3=Aerial photo of large, nighttime demonstration|Candlelight vigil

|File:Shahbag Projonmo Square Uprising Demanding Death Penalty of the War Criminals of 1971 in Bangladesh 13.jpg|alt4=Displaying shoes gor war criminals|Displaying shoes for war criminals

}}

{{gallery

|title=Overseas

|width=180

|height=170

|File:Queen's University, ON, Canada students assemblage.jpg|alt1=Students holding placards in front of "Queen's University" sign|Students at Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada

|File:Association of Bangladesh Students and Scholars @ Texas Tech University showing solidarity with Shahbag protesters.jpg|alt2=Students holding placards in front of "Texas Tech University" sign|Students at Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas, United States

|File:Bangladesh club 1nz.jpg|alt3=Bangladeshis of all ages holding signs in front of a tree|Bangladeshis in New Zealand

|File:Protest in Taiwan.jpg|alt4=Bangladeshis of all ages holding signs in a Park in Taiwan|Bangladeshis in Taipei, Taiwan

|File:Helsinki shahbag movement3.jpg|alt5=People holding signs on steps of large building|Demonstrators in Helsinki, Finland

}}

{{Commons}}

• Timeline of the 2013 Shahbagh protests
• Movement demanding trial of war criminals
• 2013 Shapla Square protests
• 2018 Bangladesh quota reform protests
• 2018 Bangladesh road safety protests
• 2024 Bangladesh quota reform protests
• 2025 Shahbag protest

{{Reflist}}

• [https://web.archive.org/web/20130302020405/http://shahbag.org/ #shahbag]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20130213220356/http://www.shahbagprotest.com/ Shahbagh Protest 2013]
• [https://web.archive.org/web/20100308004522/http://www.genocidebangladesh.org/ Bangladesh Genocide Archive]

{{Bangladesh Liberation War}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Shahbag protests, 2013}}

Category:2013 Bangladesh violence

Category:March 2013 in Bangladesh

Category:Protests in Bangladesh

Category:2013 protests

Category:Student protests in Bangladesh

Category:Aftermath of the Bangladesh Liberation War

Category:War crimes in Bangladesh

Category:February 2013 in Bangladesh