Anti-discrimination leader says: “We burned the police station and killed the SI”

Hobiganj, Shaiestaganj – A heated exchange at Shaiestaganj Police Station has sparked widespread debate across Hobiganj district, following the circulation of a video in which a student activist allegedly made violent and threatening statements inside the station. The controversy centres on Mahdi Hasan, district secretary of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, who reportedly referenced past acts of violence to intimidate police officers.

The incident occurred on Friday, 2 January, around midday. In the video, Hasan is seen in a tense discussion with Officer-in-Charge (OC) Abul Kalam, during which he identifies himself as a leader of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. Hasan reportedly recalled previous violent incidents, claiming that the movement had “reformed” government operations and insinuating that their members held influence within the administration. In a particularly alarming moment, he mentioned the arson of Baniachong Police Station and the killing of Sub-Inspector Santosh, statements that were widely interpreted as threats.

Police sources said that earlier that morning, a young man named Enamul Hasan Noyon was brought to the station for questioning. Noyon is believed to have former ties to the student wing of a political party. Upon learning of his detention, Hasan and several supporters arrived at the station, claiming to be “July warriors” and pressuring the police to release Noyon. Initially resistant, the police eventually freed him after a prolonged argument.

Legal experts have raised concerns over Hasan’s statements. A senior lawyer from Hobiganj District Court noted that such publicly recorded remarks could later serve as self-incriminating evidence, exposing the speaker to serious legal consequences.

Responding to the controversy, Hasan said he spoke in a moment of anger and that his remarks were a “slip of the tongue,” which he later regretted. Meanwhile, Superintendent of Police Yasmin Khatun confirmed that she had reviewed the video and spoken to all involved. She emphasised that the detainee had been brought in for questioning and that the discussions inside the station escalated after Hasan’s group showed photographs and video clips related to Noyon.

The incident highlights ongoing tensions between student political groups and law enforcement, raising questions about political influence, the pressures on police operations, and the potential erosion of rule of law. Local observers warn that such confrontations not only disrupt routine police functions but also challenge democratic norms and governance structures.

Summary of Incident: