Bangladesh Supreme Court Upholds Acquittal of All 38 in 2004 Dhaka Grenade Attack Case

In a highly anticipated decision, the Supreme Court of Bangladesh today upheld the High Court’s decision to acquit all 38 accused in the notorious 21 August 2004 grenade attack case, including Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). 
 
 
The ruling has sparked mixed reactions amid concerns over the integrity of judicial processes and the quest for accountability.
 
 
A six-member bench headed by Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed dismissed the state’s appeal and ruled that the confessional statements used as key evidence were inadmissible.
 
 
In addition, it expunged the High Court’s recommendation that the Home Ministry launch a fresh investigation. With the verdict offering no fresh investigative pathway, families of victims remain without closure.
 
 
The 21 August 2004 grenade attack took place at an Awami League rally on Bangabandhu Avenue, Dhaka killing 24 people and injuring hundreds, including former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Initial trials in 2018 resulted in death sentences and life imprisonments for several suspects.
 
 
Earlier on 1 December 2024, the High Court overturned those verdicts, describing the trial as legally flawed, invalidating the charge sheet, and acquitting all the accused. The High Court had also recommended a fresh investigation into the case.
 
 
While the Supreme Court seeks to uphold due legal process, its decision raises deeper questions about justice for victims, legal fairness, and institutional credibility. Critics argue the lack of convictions may undermine public confidence in justice, while supporters view it as rectifying past procedural abuses.