Has Another Awami League Leader Died in Custody under Yunus's Administration?
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Synopsis
The death of Awami League leader Saidur Rahman Sujan raises alarms about custodial deaths in Bangladesh under the Yunus regime. This marks the 25th such incident, igniting outrage among party members and calls for an independent investigation to hold those accountable. The situation reflects a troubling trend of violence against political figures in the country.
Key Takeaways
- Custodial deaths in Bangladesh have increased alarmingly.
- Awami League leaders are facing systemic abuse in custody.
- Public safety is deteriorating under the Yunus-led administration.
- Calls for judicial investigations are growing.
- The situation reflects serious human rights concerns.
Dhaka, June 16 (NationPress) In a tragic turn of events, another member of Bangladesh's Awami League has passed away while in prison custody, marking the 25th reported case of custodial death under the interim administration of Muhammad Yunus.
Following the demise of party leader Saidur Rahman Sujan, the total number of Awami League members who have died under dubious and brutal conditions while in custody has now escalated to 25, according to local media sources.
Sujan was allegedly brought dead to Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) on Sunday.
"He was taken to the jail hospital immediately and subsequently transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead at approximately 12:30 p.m.," reported Md Farouk, in charge of the DMCH police outpost.
The management of the Central Jail in Keraniganj claimed that the Awami League leader died by suicide.
The deceased, Sujan, held the position of Organising Secretary of Dhaka North District Swechchhasebak League and was a former Chairman of the Birulia Union Parishad in Savar.
However, his family and the Awami League have alleged that Sujan suffered abuse during his detention. His brother expressed skepticism regarding the official narrative and called for a thorough investigation, as reported by local media.
As per a report by The Daily Republic, the Yunus administration has made history by initiating over 80,000 cases against Awami League leaders and activists, arresting more than 360,000 individuals within the past ten months, with around 137,000 party leaders imprisoned without trial.
Moreover, another Awami League leader, Ali Azgar, reportedly died during Eid on June 7 at the Central Jail in Keraniganj, Dhaka.
His family members have claimed that Ali Azgar faced severe abuse while in custody, which ultimately led to his demise due to medical neglect when he fell critically ill.
In response, the Awami League has condemned the systemic persecution and killing of its leaders and activists.
In a statement released late Sunday, the party voiced its concern and outrage regarding the ongoing and horrific acts of torture and violence perpetrated by the "illegal, fascist Yunus regime" against its members, both in custody and across the nation.
Condemning the custodial deaths of its leaders, the Awami League has called for an immediate judicial inquiry and accountability for those responsible.
"We are witnessing the disintegration of public safety in Bangladesh. Daily, the media reports new instances of murder, rape, extortion, land grabbing, theft, robbery, and violent crime. Meanwhile, the unconstitutional and illegitimate Yunus government is actively working to alienate Awami League members from their homeland, treating them as adversaries," the statement emphasized.
The Awami League asserted that its members are enduring inhumane treatment by "agents of this extremist regime."
The party further claimed that custodial deaths are on the rise as detainees are subjected to brutal torture without trial, based on false, politically motivated accusations.
"Despite the unlawful detentions, we had hoped our people would at least remain safe from physical harm while in custody. However, this hope has transformed into dread. To date, no less than 25 Awami League leaders and activists have died in prison custody under questionable and brutal circumstances," the Awami League stated.
Point of View
It is clear that the alarming trend of custodial deaths in Bangladesh reflects a profound crisis in governance and human rights. The Awami League's calls for accountability highlight the urgent need for an independent investigation into these incidents to restore trust in the judicial system and safeguard democratic values.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the death of Saidur Rahman Sujan?
Saidur Rahman Sujan died in prison custody, with reports suggesting he was subjected to abuse. Official statements claim he died by suicide, but his family disputes this, demanding an investigation.
How many Awami League leaders have died in custody recently?
Saidur Rahman Sujan's death marks the 25th custodial death of an Awami League leader in Bangladesh under the Yunus-led administration.
What actions is the Awami League taking in response to these custodial deaths?
The Awami League is calling for immediate judicial investigations and accountability for those responsible for the custodial deaths of its leaders.
What has the Yunus administration been accused of?
The Yunus administration has been accused of systemic abuse, torture, and filing a large number of politically motivated cases against Awami League members.
How has public safety been affected in Bangladesh?
The Awami League has expressed concerns about the ongoing violence and crime in Bangladesh, citing a significant decline in public safety under the current regime.
