A grievous tragedy at Chattogram court

We are disturbed by the clashes that erupted on the Chattogram court premises on Tuesday, culminating in the brutal murder of Assistant Public Prosecutor Saiful Islam. Given the timing of these incidents—amid heightened tensions over recent attacks on media houses and violent disruptions by college students—it is not unreasonable to think that a sinister force is pulling the strings to destabilise the country through orchestrated chaos, making it all the more important that we remain careful and act responsibly at all times.

On Tuesday, violence broke out outside the Chattogram Court Building when Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a controversial former ISKCON leader facing sedition charges for allegedly disrespecting the national flag, was denied bail. Reportedly, his followers confronted security officers and lawyers as he was about to be sent to jail, halting the prison van. Despite efforts to clear them, the protests persisted, and by late afternoon, law enforcement used stun grenades and batons to disperse the crowd. The situation quickly escalated into violent confrontations, leading to at least 37 individuals being injured, including 10 police officers. During the chaos, Saiful was fatally struck by lethal weapons. Several cars, motorcycles, and a lawyer's chamber were also vandalised.

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A father lost forever

It goes without saying that these developments have profound communal implications if left unaddressed. For a country that prides itself on a hard-won interfaith harmony, despite occasional provocations, these incidents represent a troubling rise in tensions that cannot be attributed solely to the fallen regime. Other vested interest groups maybe at play, as evidenced by reports about sections of the Indian media circulating false and inflammatory narratives—such as the erroneous claim that the slain advocate was Chinmoy's lawyer. Such misinformation, coupled with exaggerated claims about police handling of Hindu supporters, is clearly designed to deepen divisions. While it is reassuring that the public has largely resisted falling into communal traps so far, the need to be circumspect has never been more urgent.

The authorities' response to the crisis has been measured so far. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus condemned Saiful's murder and promised a thorough investigation, urging calm and nonviolence. Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan earlier clarified that Chinmoy's arrest was based on allegations of sedition, not his religious identity. Such messaging is essential in countering misinformation. Six suspects linked to the killing of Saiful have been arrested based on video footage, while 21 others were detained for vandalism and assaulting police officers during the unrest. Notably, Reuters reported that among those arrested were six members of Awami League, who police said were found in possession of improvised explosives.

As investigations continue, it is crucial to separate fact from fiction. Baseless allegations and communal scapegoating will only serve to exacerbate tensions. The interim government, along with political and religious leaders, must demonstrate their commitment to peace, reconciliation, and rule of law, ensuring that those responsible for Tuesday's violence, including provocateurs, are held accountable. Only through collective resolve and vigilance can we prevent divisive forces from derailing post-uprising Bangladesh.