A day in court: Shajahan’s smirk gives way to tears

The smirk was still there as Shajahan Khan stepped out of the Dhaka Chief Metropolitan Magistrate's Court lockup. His lips curled into the familiar expression that had become his signature -- whether in moments of controversy, tragedy, or now, as an accused in a murder case.

But the confidence that once fuelled it seemed to waver.

At 10:08am, he silently stood in the dock, a stark contrast to his earlier demeanour in the holding area, as he was usually seen chatting and laughing before.

The prosecution argued for a five-day remand, linking him to the death of Rafiqul Islam in Badda on July 19 last year.

During the hearing, Shajahan raised his hand, trying to get Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate MA Azharul Islam's attention. No response. He tried again -- nothing. Only after his lawyers had spoken did the court permit him to speak. "Honourable court, please give me some time to speak. I want to say something," he began.

With permission granted, his tone turned pleading. "The public prosecutor mentioned that police fired shots during the movement. Such an order can only be given by senior police officials. I cannot order them to fire. I am not involved. Why was this case filed against me? Not only me, my son Asibur Rahman has also been accused. He is now in jail."

Then, before the packed courtroom, Shajahan Khan broke into tears.

"I am getting old. I haven't seen my son... What did my son do? While I stayed in Dhaka, he was in Madaripur. You can check this right now!" His voice cracked as he wiped his eyes with tissue paper.

The judge remained impassive. "Your lawyer has already spoken on your behalf."

But Shajahan wasn't done. Folding his hands, he begged for more time. "They [lawyers] could not explain the matter properly. Local Sirajul chairman is accused in six murder cases. I was not on his side. That is why this case has been filed against me as part of a conspiracy."

At 10:37am, the magistrate delivered his ruling -- a four-day remand.

Then, as the judge left, Shajahan wiped his face again. His smirk returned, but now it looked forced, his eyes reflecting the exhaustion beneath.

He was led out wearing a police helmet and bulletproof vest, his hands cuffed behind his back. As he walked towards the lockup, journalists tried to speak to him. A police officer stopped him from responding, but Shajahan, said, "Is it forbidden to speak? It's a democratic country..."

The officers didn't let him continue. They quickly moved him inside.

At noon, his son, Asibur Rahman Khan, was escorted into the courtroom for his hearing. The ruling was the same -- four-day remand. Asibur was taken back to the lockup, just like his father.

A sub-inspector confirmed later, "Shajahan Khan and his son were kept in separate cells."