Who are the 39 individuals indicted in the Chattogram lawyer murder case involving Chinmoy Krishna Das?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- 39 individuals indicted in the murder of lawyer Saiful Islam Alif.
- Chinmoy Krishna Das faces serious charges under the Penal Code.
- Heightened security measures were implemented during court proceedings.
- Ongoing protests highlight the Hindu community's struggles in Bangladesh.
- Political instability continues to impact minority communities.
Dhaka, Jan 19 (NationPress) A court in Bangladesh has formally charged 39 individuals, including Chinmoy Krishna Das, a leading figure in the Hindu community and spokesperson for the Bangladesh Sammilito Sanatani Jagaran Jot, for their alleged roles in the murder of Chattogram lawyer Saiful Islam Alif. This incident occurred outside the court in November 2024.
During proceedings, Judge Md Jahidul Haque of the Chattogram Divisional Speedy Trial Tribunal announced the indictment of all accused, including Chinmoy.
As reported by The Daily Star, Assistant Public Prosecutor Raihanul Wazed Chowdhury, representing the complainant, confirmed that charges were framed following arguments from both sides.
Chinmoy faces charges under Sections 302 and 109 of the Penal Code, while 22 others are charged under various sections.
Currently, 23 of the 39 accused remain in custody, with the remaining 16 reported as absconding.
In anticipation of Chinmoy's appearance, law enforcement heightened security in the court area, deploying around 900 personnel, including members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and the army.
Chinmoy, while awaiting his lawyer, addressed the court, requesting a thorough investigation and asserting his innocence in Alif’s murder, as reported by The Daily Star.
The lawyer was fatally shot on November 26, 2024, during clashes outside the court after Chinmoy's bail in a sedition case was denied.
Chinmoy was arrested in Dhaka on November 25, 2024, and subsequently denied bail by a Chattogram court. His plea for bail was rejected again on December 11.
His arrest prompted significant protests from the Hindu community amidst ongoing political instability in Bangladesh since August 2024, following the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina amid widespread civil unrest.
Since the transition to an interim government led by Muhammad Yunus, the Hindu community has faced increased violence and discrimination.
The Indian government has expressed serious concerns regarding the treatment of Hindu minorities, citing a pattern of systematic persecution under the current administration.