Salahuddin to be repatriated for trial: Kamal

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal today said BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed would be repatriated for trial in several arson and vandalism cases soon after the completion of his legal procedures in Indian court.

“Salahuddin Ahmed is accused in several cases including vandalism and arson attacks on vehicles during the BNP-led 20-party alliance enforced movement last year. He will be brought back for trial on these charges,” Kamal replied to a questioner at a function in Moulvibazar this afternoon.

The newly appointed minister earlier visited the memorial of Birshrestha Sipahi Hamidur Rahman in Moulvibazar this afternoon and placed wreaths there.

Earlier yesterday, a Shillong court in the Indian state of Meghalaya framed charges against BNP leader Salahuddin Ahmed for intruding into the Indian territory.

The court of Chief Judicial Magistrate KML Nongbri also fixed July 30 for starting the trial of the case filed under the foreigners act.

On June 3, Shillong police pressed charges against the BNP leader 23 days after the case was filled.

Salahuddin's lawyer SP Mahanta said his client denied the charges because he did not trespass.

“If Salahuddin confesses his crime, the court will order him to be sent to Bangladesh after awarding punishment against him,” said lawyer IC Jha, who stood for the state.

If the BNP leader is found guilty, he might face jail term up to five years, said lawyers.