Is the Yunus Government Failing to Protect Citizens from Violence?
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Synopsis
The shocking murder of Lal Chand Sohag in Dhaka raises serious questions about the Yunus government's failure to ensure public safety. This incident highlights the alarming rise in violence and lawlessness under the interim administration, prompting urgent calls for accountability and justice.
Key Takeaways
- Lal Chand Sohag was murdered in a brutal attack in Dhaka.
- The assailants had been extorting Sohag for months.
- Fear of political retribution prevented bystanders from intervening.
- A case has been filed with plans for a speedy trial.
- The incident highlights ongoing lawlessness under the Yunus administration.
Dhaka, July 12 (NationPress) The horrific murder of 43-year-old scrap trader Lal Chand Sohag in Dhaka has left not only Bangladeshis but also people globally in shock, condemning the Mohammad Yunus-led interim government for the rampant lawlessness that has taken hold in the South Asian nation.
The gruesome incident occurred on Wednesday (July 9) in front of Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital in Dhaka. Sohag, who operated a business named Sohana Metal, had a significant influence over the market. His adversaries, Mahmudul Hasan Mohin and Sarwar Hossain Titu, reportedly demanded a 50 percent share in the business or regular payments in lieu.
For the last two to three months, the accused had been extorting a considerable amount of money from Sohag each month. On that fateful Wednesday, when they found Sohag unaccompanied, Mohin, along with four to five others, assaulted him, mercilessly hitting him with stones and beating him severely after stripping him naked, resulting in life-threatening injuries to his head and other body parts.
As the family’s sole provider, Sohag tragically died at the scene, and a disturbing video of his murder has since gone viral on social media.
Regrettably, there was no intervention from bystanders, as fear gripped them; Mohin was a candidate for the position of General Secretary of the Chawkbazar unit of the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal (Youth Wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party - BNP). Allegations against him include extorting money from street vendors near the hospital and from chemical traders. Rumors also suggest he recommended individuals for class-three jobs at the hospital in exchange for large sums of money.
Sohag was deceived into coming to the hospital compound under the pretense of a peace meeting, only to be ambushed by a group of 40 to 50 men, according to his relatives. Both the victim and several of the accused were reportedly affiliated with the local Jubo Dal, the BNP's youth wing.
A murder case was filed on Thursday, July 10, at the Kotwali police station in Dhaka. The victim’s sister, Manjuara Begum (42), lodged the complaint. Nineteen individuals were named in the FIR, while an additional 15 to 20 unnamed persons were implicated.
In response, Asif Nazrul, Law Advisor to the interim administration, announced on Saturday that the case would be moved to the 'Speedy Trial Tribunal', ensuring a swift trial process.
Since taking power in August 2024, Muhammad Yunus has faced criticism for numerous unprovoked violent attacks against journalists, police officers, minorities, and members of the Awami League Party.
Allegations of killings, arbitrary arrests on false charges—especially targeting journalists—unchecked mob violence, and incitement of religious violence, including attacks on Bangladeshi Hindus and the destruction of Hindu temples, have surfaced. No measures have yet been taken in Bangladesh to hold accountable those responsible for these grave allegations.
Point of View
It is imperative to acknowledge the gravity of the situation facing Bangladesh. The tragic murder of Lal Chand Sohag is not just an isolated incident but reflects a broader crisis of governance and public safety. It is the responsibility of the nation to demand accountability from those in power and to ensure that such heinous acts do not go unpunished.
NationPress
14/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened in Dhaka on July 9?
On July 9, 43-year-old scrap trader Lal Chand Sohag was brutally murdered by a group of attackers in front of Sir Salimullah Medical College Mitford Hospital.
Who were the main suspects in the murder?
The primary suspects are Mahmudul Hasan Mohin and Sarwar Hossain Titu, who reportedly demanded a share of Sohag's business and had been extorting him for months.
Was there any public intervention during the attack?
Unfortunately, no one intervened during the attack as the assailants were feared due to their political connections.
What actions have been taken by the authorities?
A case has been filed, and the government has announced plans to transfer the case to a Speedy Trial Tribunal for quick proceedings.
How does this incident reflect on the Yunus government?
This incident raises serious concerns about the Yunus government's ability to maintain law and order and protect its citizens from violence.
