"The individuals involved were wearing masks."
The family of Bangladeshi politician Touhidul Islam have claimed his death in custody was the result of torture.
Hundreds of villagers and family members formed a human chain in front of the Cumilla Press Club.
They carried Touhidul’s body, demanding justice for his alleged death in custody.
Touhidul Islam was a leader of Jubo Dal, the youth wing of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).
The protest began in Italla village, where participants marched approximately four and a half kilometres to raise awareness about his tragic fate.
Touhidul was reportedly taken from his home by armed men claiming to be part of the joint forces.
His wife, Yesmin Nahar, recounted the harrowing events of that night.
She claimed: “We were preparing for the kulkhani when four men arrived, claiming to be from the joint forces.
“They detained Touhidul without explanation, searched our home, and left with him in a pickup truck, taking Tk 1.5 lakh in cash.”
Yesmin further alleged that the forces had assured her family that Touhidul would not be harmed.
However, she described how he was visibly weak when brought back the next morning to search a neighbour’s house.
She claimed he was tortured to death, adding:
“Later, we received a call from the police directing us to Cumilla Medical College Hospital, where we found his lifeless body.”
An inquest report from Kotwali Police Station indicated that Touhidul’s body bore multiple bruises, suggesting severe abuse.
Another detainee, Lutfur Rahman, corroborated the family’s account, alleging that Touhidul was tortured throughout the night while tied to a tree.
He reported: “The individuals involved were wearing masks.”
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a statement acknowledging that Touhidul had been arrested on specific allegations.
They expressed regret over his death and announced that the camp commander had been relieved of duty pending an investigation.
A high-level committee has been formed to probe the incident, with assurances that legal action will follow if any wrongdoing is uncovered.
Touhidul’s niece, Mahbuba Uddin, stated that army officials have assured the family of a thorough investigation.
She noted:
“Lieutenant Colonel Mahmudul Hasan from Cumilla Cantonment promised that action would be taken against those responsible.”
Rights group Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern over the incident, demanding a fair and impartial investigation.
They called for the prosecution of those responsible for the Jubo Dal leader’s death.
As the community mourns and demands justice, the case highlights ongoing issues regarding human rights and police accountability in Bangladesh.
The family awaits action and answers as they seek justice for Touhidul Islam.
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