HRSS concerned at custodial death of BNP leader in Chuadanga

Human Rights Support Society (HRSS) expressed deep concern and strong condemnation over the death of BNP leader Shamsuzzaman Dablu, general secretary of Jibannagar Municipality BNP, following his detention during a joint forces operation in Jibannagar Upazila of Chuadanga district, describing the incident as a grave violation of fundamental human rights and the rule of law.

According to media reports, Dablu died in custody shortly after being detained in the operation. His family members and local sources have alleged that he was subjected to torture, further intensifying the seriousness of the incident. Although the administration has provided a different version of events, HRSS said the death of a citizen while in custody is "deeply concerning in terms of human rights and the rule of law."

In a statement, the organization said, "It is the constitutional and moral responsibility of the state and the relevant law enforcement agencies to protect the life and security of the detained person." It added that "death in custody is unacceptable in any way without handing over the case to the court through legal process, if there is any allegation."

HRSS has called for an immediate, full, impartial and independent judicial investigation into the incident, stressing that the inquiry must identify those responsible and ensure "exemplary punishment under the highest provisions of the law." The rights body also demanded that the autopsy report and the progress of the investigation be made public "so that public confidence is established."