A court in Dhaka has placed a model and social media personality on remand following her arrest at the National Martyrs’ Memorial, where she had reportedly laid flowers on behalf of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina during Independence Day observances.
The accused, identified as Mosammat Simu Akter Brishti, widely known by her alias “Misti Subas”, has been granted a two-day remand for police interrogation. In the same case, another accused, Rafiqul Islam, also known as Durjoy, has been placed on a three-day remand.
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Court proceedings and legal context
The remand orders were issued on Friday by Dhaka Senior Judicial Magistrate Tajul Islam Sohag in connection with a case filed under the Anti-Terrorism Act. The ruling came after police produced the accused before the court and sought five days’ remand for each individual to facilitate further investigation.
Defence counsel, Advocate Md Khair Uddin Sikdar, appealed for bail and opposed the remand request, arguing that the allegations did not justify custodial interrogation. However, the court rejected the bail petition and granted remand for a shorter period than requested by investigators.
Arrest during Independence Day observance
The incident occurred on 26 March, Bangladesh’s Independence Day, when the accused were detained at the memorial complex in Savar. According to law enforcement officials, they were among a group attempting to carry out activities deemed unlawful under prevailing regulations.
Police subsequently filed a case at Ashulia Police Station under the Anti-Terrorism Act, citing concerns over public order and alleged attempts to incite unrest.
Allegations outlined in the case
According to the case statement, approximately 22 to 25 individuals associated with the banned Bangladesh Awami League gathered in front of the main altar of the memorial. The group allegedly displayed placards bearing images of Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, while chanting political slogans.
Authorities claim that slogans included calls rejecting the legitimacy of the current government and expressing support for Sheikh Hasina’s return to power. Investigators allege that the gathering was intended to create a provocative atmosphere and disrupt public order during a nationally significant day.
Case summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary accused | Mosammat Simu Akter Brishti (Misti Subas) |
| Co-accused | Rafiqul Islam (Durjoy) |
| Location of incident | National Martyrs’ Memorial, Savar |
| Date of arrest | 26 March (Independence Day) |
| Legal framework | Anti-Terrorism Act |
| Remand granted | 2 days (Brishti), 3 days (Durjoy) |
| Police station | Ashulia Police Station |
| Court | Dhaka Senior Judicial Magistrate Court |
| Investigation status | Ongoing |
Broader political and legal implications
The case has drawn attention due to its political sensitivity and the symbolic location of the . The National Martyrs’ Memorial is a site of immense , commemorating those who sacrificed their lives during Bangladesh’s Liberation War. Activities conducted there are typically subject to strict protocols, particularly on national Day such as Independence Day.
Legal experts note that the use of anti-terrorism legislation in politically charged contexts often generates debate regarding proportionality and interpretation of the law. While authorities maintain that the is necessary to preserve public order, critics frequently call for careful scrutiny to ensure that আইন প্রয়োগ remains balanced and justified.
Continuing investigation
Police officials have stated that the remand period will be used to question the accused regarding the , planning, and organisational links behind the . Investigators are also examining whether additional individuals were involved and whether further charges may be warranted.
Security measures at the memorial and surrounding area have reportedly been tightened following the incident, with authorities emphasising their commitment to maintaining discipline and respect
As the investigation progresses, the case is likely to remain under close public and political observation, reflecting broader tensions surrounding. public space, and in Bangladesh.