Concern of Ain o Salish Kendra over the arrest process of former Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury

According to information published in the media, on the night of April 6, 2026, former Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury was detained by law enforcement agencies from a relative’s residence in Dhanmondi and taken to the DB office. Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) stated that it is not reasonable to show a woman as detained in this manner at midnight. It is necessary to clarify whether the arrest process could have been conducted during the daytime in a transparent and procedural manner.

ASK stated that the chaotic situation reported in the media during her presentation before the court is not consistent with minimum standards of discipline and dignity. Due to security lapses in the court premises, she was seen falling amid a rush and commotion, which is in no way acceptable. Ensuring the safety and dignity of every individual seeking justice is part of the responsibility of the state.

The organization believes that in cases of arrest and detention, it is essential to properly follow the existing laws, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the directives of the higher courts. Any deviation in this regard is inconsistent with the fundamental principles of justice and may undermine the constitutional rights of citizens.

It is উল্লেখযোগ্য that in May 2025, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) stated that after the fall of the Awami League government, 626 individuals had taken shelter in cantonments for security reasons. The name of Dr. Shirin Sharmin was also included in that list. However, as no official information regarding her whereabouts was later disclosed, the matter sparked public discussion. Her sudden detention has raised new questions.

ASK stated that every organ of the state law enforcement agencies, administration, and the judiciary is constitutionally obligated to protect human rights. For a government that comes to power with the mandate of the people, this responsibility is even more significant, especially when commitments have been made in electoral pledges to ensure the rule of law and constitutional rights.

According to them, in the current context, it is crucial to ensure the effective reflection of those commitments so that justice, transparency, and humanity are reflected in state conduct toward every citizen. ASK has called upon the relevant authorities to take effective measures to prevent such situations in the future.