Former BNP Vice-Chairman Sentenced to Jail for Attack on Chief Justice’s Residence
DHAKA, Nov 5, 2023 – In a significant development, a court in Dhaka has ordered the imprisonment of Air Vice Marshal (retd) Altaf Hossain Choudhury, the former Vice-Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), in connection with an attack on the official residence of the Chief Justice. The incident took place during a grand rally organized by the BNP in Nayapaltan area on October 28.
Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Mohammad Sheikh Sadi issued the order after the police presented Choudhury, who previously served as the Home Minister, before the court. The investigating officer, Sub-Inspector Abu Ansar, requested the court to keep Choudhury in custody until the completion of the investigation.
Earlier today, the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) apprehended Choudhury from the Tongi locality. It is alleged that on October 28, BNP supporters attacked the Chief Justice’s residence, forcibly breaking down one of the gates. The assailants also engaged in indiscriminate stone-throwing towards the main building.
A case was registered against 59 leaders and activists of the BNP, including its Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Vice-Chairman Barkat Ullah Bulu, Abdul Awal Mintoo, and Shamsuzzaman Dudu, at the Ramna Police Station.
The court’s decision to incarcerate Choudhury signifies a major development in the ongoing legal proceedings against those involved in the attack. It highlights the authorities’ commitment to maintaining law and order and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
The attack on the Chief Justice’s residence has raised concerns within the country, drawing attention to the need for a peaceful and respectful political environment. As the case unfolds, it will be essential for all parties involved to respect the legal process and for investigations to be conducted impartially.
The BNP, historically one of Bangladesh’s major political parties, has been involved in various controversies in recent years. The outcome of this case will have implications not only for the individuals accused of perpetrating the attack but also for the reputation and standing of the party itself.
Moving forward, it is crucial for all political parties and their members to adhere to democratic principles and express their grievances through legal and peaceful means. Respect for the rule of law should be paramount, ensuring a fair and just society for all citizens.
As the investigation into the attack on the Chief Justice’s residence continues, it remains to be seen how the legal proceedings will unfold and what impact they will have on the political landscape of Bangladesh. The verdict in this case will serve as a critical indicator of the nation’s commitment to upholding justice and the rule of law.