In a landmark ruling today, 18 February, the Dhaka court has handed down life sentences to artist Shilpi Begum and her son’s close friend Fahim Pathan over the murder of her husband, Sohel Howlader, in Hazari Bagh six years ago. The verdict was delivered by the 10th Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge, Mohammad Shahidul Islam.
According to the court, in addition to life imprisonment, each convict has been fined BDT 10,000. Should the fines remain unpaid, an additional year of imprisonment will be enforced for each individual. Fahim Pathan was present in court at the time of sentencing and was immediately returned to prison following the verdict. Shilpi Begum, however, remains absconding; a warrant has been issued for her arrest.
Table of Contents
Background of the Murder
Sohel Howlader’s mutilated and foul-smelling body was discovered on 15 September 2020 in the Middle Basila area of Hazari Bagh. The following day, SI Saiful Islam of Hazari Bagh Police Station filed a case naming unidentified individuals as suspects. Subsequent investigations revealed that Shilpi Begum, her son Sijan Mahmud, and Fahim Pathan were directly involved in the murder.
Owing to his age at the time, 17-year-old Sijan has been charged separately under the juvenile justice system, and his case is ongoing in the Children’s Court.
Sequence of Events
The killing appears to have stemmed from domestic disputes and financial disagreements. Sohel had allegedly received BDT 140,000 from Sijan’s father under the pretext of securing a job for Sijan. When the promised employment did not materialise and repayment was demanded, tensions escalated between Sohel and Shilpi Begum.
On 13 September 2020, according to the prosecution, Shilpi Begum and Fahim Pathan administered a sedative-laced drink to Sohel. Once intoxicated, he was restrained and fatally stabbed. Following the murder, Shilpi Begum reportedly fled to her sister’s residence.
Judicial Process
The charges were formally framed on 5 April 2023. During the trial, the court recorded testimonies from twelve witnesses. After hearing the defence and prosecution arguments, the judgement was announced today.
Summary of Convictions
| Convicted Individual | Relation to Victim | Sentence Type | Fine | Arrest Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shilpi Begum | Wife | Life Imprisonment | BDT 10,000 | Absconding, warrant issued |
| Fahim Pathan | Son Sijan’s friend | Life Imprisonment | BDT 10,000 | In prison |
This verdict is regarded as one of the most significant in Bangladesh involving a domestic homicide, particularly a case entangling a couple and their immediate social circle. Legal experts have noted the thoroughness of the investigation and the court’s firm stance in delivering justice in a case that had drawn widespread public attention.