Dhaka, Nov. 23 -- The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has declined a request from several detained Army officers to appear before the court virtually, saying all citizens are equal in the eyes of the law.

The officers, arrested in two cases relating to alleged enforced disappearances and torture during the Awami League government, had sought permission to join proceedings online rather than being produced in person.

A two-member bench led by Justice Golam Mortuza Mozumder delivered the remarks during a hearing on Sunday.

Defence lawyer Masud Salauddin argued for the officers' virtual appearance.

But the tribunal chairman responded, "The law is equal for everyone. The chief justice and the most senior Appellate Division judges atte...