Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal sentenced ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her home minister, Asaduzzaman Khan, to death in absentia for crimes against humanity related to last year’s student-led uprising, which the UN says killed up to 1,400 people.

The tribunal, modeled on the Nuremberg trials, defended its process as meeting international standards, while Hasina called the verdict politically motivated and denied any wrongdoing.

The protests, initially over a controversial government job quota system, escalated into a broader anti-government movement that forced Hasina to resign and flee the country.

Security has been tightened across Bangladesh ahead of potential unrest, and the interim government has requested India extradite Hasina and Khan, NPR has reported.

Analysts warn the ruling may fuel further political violence, with the Awami League party banned from activities ahead of upcoming elections.