The High Court has granted bail to three accused in the death of Buet student Muhtasim Masud, sparking two days of protests among Buet students since Thursday.
The bench of the High Court's Appellate Division, comprising Justice ASM Abdul Mobin and Justice Mahmud Hassan Talukder, granted bail to the detainees—Md Mobin Al Mamun, Md Mirazul Karim, and Md Asif Chowdhury—after the hearing on Thursday.
Advocate Dr Mohammad Noor Hossain, the associate of the informant, confirmed to Dhaka Tribune that the accused had been granted bail.
“The case should be brought under Section 302. However, Sections 98, 99, and 105 have been applied, which is totally unexpected,” he added.
Expressing frustration over the verdict, the father of the deceased, Md Masud Mia, told Dhaka Tribune: “My son was killed by a reckless, unlicensed, drunk driver while standing near the footpath. Section 302 should be included in the case. The current charges under Sections 98, 99, and 105 are insufficient, and, even the Section 105 is non-bailable. Yet, the High Court granted bail. What can we do now? Where should we seek justice?”
Following news of the bail, protests erupted at Buet.
Students held protest rallies on Thursday and Friday, placing a six-point demand that includes reconsideration of the bail decision and the reclassification of the crime as murder.
Addressing the rally, protesters said that their movement would not stop until justice is served and the law is properly enforced.
They declared that their peaceful protests and democratic programs will continue until the entire incident is thoroughly investigated and justice is ensured.
The six-point demand of the students’ includes:
Immediate reconsideration of the bail decision
The bail granted to the accused must be revoked immediately, and they should be taken back into custody.
Uninterrupted legal action
Full legal action must be ensured against all those involved, and the maximum possible punishment must be imposed.
Justice must be strictly served according to the law.
Prevention of escape abroad
As the accused are highly influential individuals, strict travel bans must be imposed to prevent them from fleeing the country.
Prevention of misuse of power
Authorities must ensure that the accused’s father, Brigadier General (Retd) Abdullah Al Mamun, does not use his influence to obstruct the investigation. A transparent probe must be guaranteed.
Accountability for police negligence
Immediate action must be taken against the police for their irresponsibility and negligence in handling the case.
A comprehensive investigation report must be submitted without delay.
Proper classification of the crime as murder
The case must be registered under Section 302 (murder), as the driver was intoxicated, violated all traffic rules, and recklessly killed an innocent student.
His inhumane behavior and utter disregard for responsibility should not be considered an accident but a deliberate act of murder.
The maximum punishment must be ensured.
