A court in Cumilla cleared former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia of charges in a sabotage case related to an incident in Chouddagram in 2015. 

The Additional Session Judge Court-2, led by Judge Afroza Jesmin, ruled that there was no evidence against Zia, who is currently receiving medical treatment in London. 

The court also noted that the case was politically motivated and intended for harassment.

The case, filed under the Special Powers Act, 1974, accused Zia and 31 others of damaging a covered van and setting it on fire during a hartal in January 2015. 

While 36 accused individuals were acquitted, the court has deferred its decision on six others who had previously received suspension orders. 

Public Prosecutor Kaimul Haque Rinku confirmed the court's ruling.

BDST: 1637 HRS, JAN 22, 2025
MN/SMS