The New Nation - Internet Edition

Bdnews24.com, Dhaka

Hearing of the grenade attack on Awami League rally in 2004 has been deferred for a third time, raising concern about the future of the case, said lawyers. Jan. 6 has been re-fixed as the next date for the hearing.

The trial has to be finished within 135 working days in the speedy trial tribunal. As the judge was on holiday yesterday, hearing could not be take place and Mufti Hannan, top leader of banned Islamist outfit Harkatul Jihad, and others were not brought to court.

After shifting 13 dates, the court framed charges on Oct. 29 under the explosives and assassination acts.

In both cases, there are 412 witnesses for the state and lawyers say if there is suspension on hearing, it will be impossible to call the witnesses within the specified time limit.

On Nov. 17, the statement of the defendant was taken.

Among the 22 accused in the August 21, 2004, grenade attack at the rally of AL president Sheikh Hasina are former deputy minister Abdus Salam Pintu and Hannan.

In the attack, 23 persons including senior AL leader Ivy Rahman were killed.

Sharif Faruk, assistant sub-inspector of Motijheel Police Station, lodged a case.

After the change of the investigating officer and delays, assistant police superintendent of Criminal Investigation Department of police, Fazlul Kabir, submitted two charge sheets under the assassination and explosives acts.

Of the 22 accused, Pintu, Mufti Hanna and 11 others are in prison; Pintu's brother Tajuddin and others are absconding.