The government announces the withdrawal of criminal cases for July–August.

The interim government has announced it will withdraw all criminal cases filed against activists in connection with the July–August 2024 protests. This move is part of a broader initiative to provide legal protection to participants of the mass uprising and formally recognise their role in political resistance.

The decision was disclosed on Thursday, 15 January, at a briefing held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka. The session, which addressed contemporary political and legal developments, was led by Professor Asif Nazrul, the government’s legal affairs advisor.

Professor Nazrul stated, “Any criminal cases filed against activists during the July–August 2024 protests for political resistance will be withdrawn. Furthermore, no new cases will be filed against those who participated in the movement.” He added that authorities are currently reviewing whether any ongoing cases remain against participants of the July uprising.

This initiative follows the approval of the “July Uprising Indemnity Act” by the advisory council, designed to safeguard the legal rights of the protestors. The act provides immunity from prosecution for actions undertaken during the uprising, while recognising the participants’ contribution to defending democratic rights.

In an earlier announcement on 8 January via social media, Professor Nazrul explained the rationale for the legislation. He emphasised that the draft decree aims to “shield the heroes of the July revolution from punitive action by the remnants of the former authoritarian regime and to formally acknowledge their resistance as a legitimate political act.”

The government’s move has been welcomed by civil society groups and political commentators, who view it as a step toward reconciliation and legal clarity. It also signals a commitment to protect citizens exercising their democratic rights in times of political upheaval.

Summary of Measures for July–August 2024 Protest Participants

This legal intervention is expected to restore confidence among political activists and reinforce the government’s commitment to upholding democratic principles while addressing past political grievances.