In a significant development, former Bangladesh cricket captain Mashrafe Mortaza has been named among the 90 accused in connection with attacks on students during recent unrest in Bangladesh. This follows the earlier charges against another cricket icon, Shakib Al Hasan, who was implicated in a murder case during the same period of political turmoil.
Background of the Unrest
The unrest in Bangladesh began as a series of student protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. The protests, which started peacefully, soon escalated into violent confrontations. On August 4, a rally led by Mashrafe Mortaza and his father, Golam Mortaza Swapan, took place at the Narail intersection. According to the case statement, the rally participants were armed with sharp weapons and attacked students near Russel Setu.
The Charges against Mashrafe Mortaza
Mashrafe Mortaza, along with 90 others, faces serious accusations of inciting violence and participating in attacks on students. The case was filed by Sheikh Mostafa Al-Muzahidur Rahman Palash at the Narail Sadar police station on September 10. The charges against Mashrafe have shocked many, given his status as a national hero and his contributions to Bangladesh cricket.
Shakib Al Hasan’s Involvement
Earlier, Shakib Al Hasan was named among 147 people charged in a murder case related to the protests. The case was filed by Rafiqul Islam, the father of Mohammed Rubel, who was killed during the unrest. Shakib, who was in Pakistan for a Test series at the time, did not return to Bangladesh and instead traveled to England to play for Surrey.
BANGLADESH: Case filed against cricketer Mashrafa Mortaza and his father Golam Mortaza for attack on students.
It is claimed that Mashrafe and his father along with others equipped with sharp weapons and arms held a rally at the Narail intersection on August 4. pic.twitter.com/robI8eViUM
— Sensei Kraken Zero (@YearOfTheKraken) September 11, 2024
Political Implications
The involvement of high-profile sports figures like Mashrafe Mortaza and Shakib Al Hasan in the unrest has significant political implications. Both players have been associated with the ruling Awami League party. Mashrafe entered politics in 2018, joining the Awami League and being elected as a Member of Parliament from the Narail-2 constituency. The charges against them have added a new dimension to the political crisis in Bangladesh.
Ongoing Investigations
The investigations into the charges against Mashrafe Mortaza and Shakib Al Hasan are ongoing. Law enforcement agencies are gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to build a case.
Also Read: Paralympic Gold Medalist Nitesh Kumar Slams BAI for Negligence
