In Jhalokathi’s Nalchiti upazila, a former student leader recently declared prohibited, was granted temporary parole to attend his father’s funeral, drawing significant attention in local political circles. The individual, Rakibul Islam Jomaddar (25), appeared at the funeral with his legs shackled, though his hands were free, highlighting the delicate balance between legal restrictions and familial obligations.
Rakibul Islam Jomaddar serves as the Organisational Secretary of the Subidpur Union unit of the Bangladesh Chhatra League. He had been incarcerated for nearly a month in connection with a political case, restricting his ability to participate in family events.
On Thursday evening, the funeral of his father, Mosharraf Jomaddar, took place in Kamdevpur village, Subidpur Union. Following a formal request by the family, authorities granted Rakibul a short-term parole, allowing him to attend the rites under police supervision. According to officials, the parole was strictly limited to 12 hours, consistent with legal provisions, and his leg shackles remained in place throughout. After the funeral and burial ceremonies, Rakibul was returned to prison in accordance with the scheduled time.
Nalchiti Police Station Officer-in-Charge, Ariful Alam, confirmed: “Rakibul was released on short-term parole following the family’s application and administrative approval. He remained under police protection for the entire duration. The shackles were not removed, as the law does not permit parole exceeding twelve hours. He was returned to prison under the same conditions as when released.”
Meanwhile, Nalchiti Upazila Chhatra League President, Anik Rahman Sardar, remarked: “The loss of a parent is deeply painful. In such circumstances, attending the funeral on parole is an emotional and significant moment. We hope for Rakibul’s unconditional release in due course.”
The table below summarises the key details of Rakibul Islam Jomaddar’s temporary parole and funeral attendance:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Rakibul Islam Jomaddar |
| Age | 25 |
| Position | Organisational Secretary, Subidpur Union Chhatra League |
| Reason for Arrest | Political case |
| Duration in Prison | Approximately one month |
| Funeral Location | Kamdevpur Village, Subidpur Union |
| Parole Type | Short-term (12-hour limit) |
| Security | Under police supervision |
| Leg Shackles | Worn during funeral |
| Handcuffs | Not applied |
| Return to Prison | After funeral, as scheduled |
The incident has elicited mixed reactions among the local community. While it underscores the human aspect of legal processes, it also brings political identity into focus. The police-managed short-term parole and use of leg shackles illustrate a careful adherence to law while recognising the emotional needs of the bereaved.
Ultimately, Rakibul Islam’s presence at his father’s funeral represents a convergence of personal grief and political identity, a moment that has resonated widely within the local society.