Hundreds of Dhaka University students erupted into spontaneous celebration at the TSC area on Monday after the International Crimes Tribunal announced the death sentence for former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

As soon as the verdict was delivered around 3pm, students began distributing sweets and brought out a victory procession from the foot of the metro station.

The procession moved through several points of the campus before marching towards the Secretariat amid chanting and festivity.

Student leaders, including representatives of DUCSU, gave brief immediate reactions, calling the verdict “a new example for the judiciary of Bangladesh”.

They described the judgment as a historic turning point against the longstanding culture of impunity.

They said the tribunal’s decision met public expectations regarding the trial of grave allegations, including human rights violations, killings and enforced disappearances spanning many years.

The students also expressed gratitude to the prosecution and the witnesses for what they termed a courageous effort to ensure justice.

DUCSU Social Services Secretary AB Zubair said, “A new path has now opened before us. An opportunity has come to build a transparent future in all sectors - from state governance to education, research and technology. This generation will lead that change.”

He also thanked Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam for his dedication and resolve in handling the case.

Since morning, a festive atmosphere had prevailed across the university area, with crowds gathering in anticipation of the verdict. The sentencing was broadcast live on a giant screen installed at TSC, drawing hundreds of students who later joined the celebrations.