Why Are We Outraged Over Photos of Ex-Bangladesh Minister Handcuffed to a Hospital Bed?
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Synopsis
The shocking images of former Bangladesh Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun, found handcuffed to his hospital bed prior to his death, have ignited a storm of controversy. With human rights groups condemning the act as a severe violation of dignity, the incident raises critical questions about state responsibility and the treatment of detainees. Explore the unfolding outrage.
Key Takeaways
- Images of Humayun handcuffed in a hospital have sparked outrage.
- Human rights advocates are condemning the treatment as inhumane.
- The incident violates legal standards for the treatment of detainees.
- Many view it as a reflection of ongoing authoritarian practices.
- The outcry underscores the need for legal reform and accountability.
Dhaka, Oct 2 (NationPress) The release of images depicting former Bangladesh Industries Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun, handcuffed to a hospital bed during his treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), has sparked significant outrage and condemnation among human rights advocates and legal professionals, according to local media. Humayun, a prominent leader of the Awami League and a former lawmaker, was held at Dhaka Central Jail in Keraniganj. He was admitted to DMCH in critical condition and passed away on September 29. Following his death, images of him restrained to the bed emerged on social media, igniting considerable criticism.
Despite prison officials claiming that the photos were taken during an earlier stage of his hospitalization, lawyers and human rights defenders have labeled the act as a severe violation of human dignity.
"Handcuffing a dying or deceased individual is inhumane and represents a glaring violation of human rights. This will stand as a testament to the most egregious breach of dignity," remarked human rights advocate Nur Khan Liton in an interview with the esteemed Bangladeshi daily, The Business Standard.
The controversy has reignited discussions about a 2018 High Court ruling that arose from a petition by the Bangladesh Legal Aid and Services Trust (BLAST). This ruling directed officials to limit the indiscriminate use of handcuffs on detainees and to take care in such situations.
Advocate Abu Obyaidur Rahman, who represented BLAST in that case, stated that the viral images constituted a "clear breach" of the court's orders.
"What makes a 75-year-old ill man deemed dangerous or likely to escape?" he queried.
Human rights activist Abu Ahmed Faijul Kabir also condemned the incident, labeling it a "serious failure of the state."
"An 80-year-old man, gravely ill and nearing death—a freedom fighter and former minister—being subjected to such inhumane treatment is not just against human values but also a significant lapse in state responsibility," he asserted.
Supreme Court lawyer Jyotirmoy Barua emphasized that this act contravened Article 27 of Bangladesh's Constitution, which assures equality before the law and equitable access to healthcare.
"This selective application of law is intolerable. Justice must be impartial for everyone. Witnessing an elderly, ailing individual treated in this manner highlights the ongoing presence of authoritarian practices," he stated.
This incident occurs amid a backdrop of intensified repression against Awami League leaders and activists following the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, with numerous opposition leaders reportedly imprisoned on what critics claim are fabricated charges, with several reported to have died in custody.
Point of View
We must recognize that the treatment of individuals, regardless of their past, should adhere to the principles of human dignity and rights. The incident involving Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun demands a critical examination of state practices and calls for adherence to legal standards that protect all citizens. We must ensure that justice is equitable and that human rights are upheld.
NationPress
02/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun?
Former Bangladesh Industries Minister Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun was found handcuffed to a hospital bed during his treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, sparking outrage after his death.
Why are people outraged by the images?
The images have been criticized as a gross violation of human dignity and human rights, particularly since they depict a critically ill and elderly individual in handcuffs.
What has been the legal response to this incident?
Legal experts have emphasized that this incident violates previous court rulings regarding the treatment of detainees and the use of handcuffs.
What does the Constitution say about this issue?
Article 27 of Bangladesh's Constitution guarantees equality before the law and access to healthcare, which many believe was violated in this case.
What broader issues does this incident highlight?
This incident raises concerns about state accountability, the treatment of political detainees, and the persistence of authoritarian practices.
