Bangladesh’s war crimes tribunal has begun the trial of ex-PM Sheikh Hasina in absentia over the 2024 student protest crackdown.

Labeling her the “nucleus of all crimes,” prosecutors also implicated two close associates, Kamal and Mamun, in the sweeping charges.

Hasina and Kamal fled to India, and Mamun is in custody and cooperating. The tribunal plans to present witness testimonies.

Hasina was also sentenced to six months in absentia for contempt. A UN report claims up to 1,400 were killed in the crackdown.