The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has secured an absolute majority in the recently concluded national election. However, the new Members of Parliament have yet to take oath, and a new government has not been formally constituted. Amid this transitional period, an incident in Dhanmondi has raised concerns about political intolerance and the future trajectory of democracy in the country.
On Sunday, Professor Dr. A.K.M. Jamal Uddin of the Sociology Department at the University of Dhaka was allegedly assaulted and detained by police while attempting to pay tribute at Dhanmondi 32, the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.
Professor Jamal Uddin is not only a university academic but also the son of a decorated freedom fighter. According to viral footage and photographs circulating on social media, on-duty police officers were seen grabbing him by the collar and neck and dragging him away from the premises.
The incident occurred shortly after the election results were announced, even before the formal swearing-in of the new government. Political observers say the timing of the episode is significant and potentially alarming.
Analysts argue that following the BNP’s electoral victory, sections of the administration appear eager to align themselves with the incoming power structure. They suggest that such conduct by law enforcement—especially toward an unarmed university professor—raises questions about the neutrality of state institutions during a sensitive transition period.
The BNP has long described itself as a party rooted in the legacy of the Liberation War and has pledged to uphold the rule of law and human rights following its electoral win. However, critics point out that the public humiliation of a freedom fighter’s son amid victory celebrations contradicts those commitments.
On social media, many users questioned what this might signal for the future. “If this happens before the new government even assumes office, what will the situation be once it formally takes power?” read one widely shared comment.
Professor Jamal Uddin is known as a prominent leader of the pro-Awami League “Nil Dal” (Blue Panel) teachers’ group at Dhaka University. While his political affiliations are well known, civil society members emphasize that he remains a university teacher and the son of a freedom fighter—identities that, they argue, should transcend partisan divisions.
Political observers describe the interim phase between election results and government formation as highly delicate. They warn that perceived partisan behavior by law enforcement agencies during this time could deepen polarization and erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
Academics and human rights activists have expressed concern that if a Dhaka University professor and freedom fighter’s son cannot feel secure during a transitional period, it sends troubling signals about the inclusiveness and tolerance of the “new era” in politics.
The Dhaka University Teachers’ Association and several social organizations have demanded the immediate and unconditional release of Professor Jamal Uddin, along with a transparent investigation into what they describe as excessive police conduct.
