High Court admits appeals of death-row couple in Pallabi child rape-murder case

The High Court of Bangladesh has admitted for hearing the jail appeals filed by Sohel Rana and his wife, Swapna Khatun, who were sentenced to death for the rape and murder of an eight-year-old girl in Dhaka's Pallabi area. This development marks a critical step in the judicial review process of the case.

Case Background

On May 19, 2026, eight-year-old Ramisa was found beheaded in the residence of her neighbor, Sohel Rana, in Dhaka's Pallabi area. The incident led to widespread public outrage and demands for swift justice. The trial court convicted Sohel Rana and his wife, Swapna Khatun, sentencing them to death for their roles in the crime.

Appeals Process

Following their conviction, Sohel Rana and Swapna Khatun filed jail appeals through the prison authorities, as they were unable to afford private legal representation. On June 14, 2026, the High Court bench comprising Justice Mohammad Ali and Justice Md Saiful Islam admitted these appeals for hearing. The court also ordered that the appeals be heard together with the pending death reference, ensuring a comprehensive review of the case.

Legal Implications

The admission of the appeals signifies the commencement of the High Court's mandatory review of the death sentences. This process is crucial to ensure that the trial court's verdict was reached in accordance with legal standards and that the rights of the accused were upheld throughout the judicial proceedings.

Next Steps

The Supreme Court registrar general, Mohammad Habibur Rahman Siddique, indicated that the death reference and jail appeals would be sent to the Government Press for the preparation of paper books. These documents, which compile all relevant case materials, are essential for the High Court's detailed examination and subsequent hearings.

Conclusion

The High Court's decision to admit the appeals of Sohel Rana and Swapna Khatun underscores the judiciary's commitment to due process and the thorough review of capital punishment cases. This step ensures that justice is served not only swiftly but also fairly, maintaining public confidence in the legal system.