Summary:
- Two leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Hasnat Abdullah and Sarjis Alam, narrowly escaped an alleged truck attack on the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar highway on November 27.
- The incident occurred around 7:30 PM while they were returning from visiting the grave of late advocate Saiful Islam Alif, raising concerns about their safety.
- Local police have detained the truck driver and assistant, confirming the vehicle’s seizure and initiating legal proceedings.
- Protests have been announced demanding justice, with activists rallying to ensure accountability for the attempted attack.
On the evening of Wednesday, November 27, a chilling incident unfolded on the Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar highway near Chunati Union’s Haji Rastar Mor. Two prominent leaders of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Hasnat Abdullah and Sarjis Alam, narrowly escaped an alleged murder attempt when a truck reportedly tried to run them over.
The incident occurred around 7:30 PM as the two leaders, along with their associate Khan Talat Mahmud Rafi, were returning from paying respects at the grave of late advocate Saiful Islam Alif. Speaking about the harrowing experience, Rafi stated, “We were returning after visiting the grave when a truck attempted to crush us. We are facing serious security risks. May Allah protect us.”
The central coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, Md. Tariqul Islam, confirmed the details to reporters, emphasizing that this was not an accident but a deliberate act. “Hasnat Abdullah and Sarjis Alam were targeted while returning to Dhaka after visiting the grave of advocate Saiful Islam Alif,” he said.
The incident has drawn widespread condemnation. National Civic Committee member Moshiur Rahman assured that both leaders escaped without severe injuries, saying, “Thankfully, they are safe and have not suffered serious harm.”
In response to the attack, the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has announced protest programs to demand justice and ensure the safety of their leaders. The organization took to social media late Wednesday night to mobilize support for their cause.
Local authorities have reportedly detained both the truck driver and his assistant in connection with the incident. Investigations are underway to determine whether this was an intentional act or a road accident.
This alarming event has sparked concerns over the safety of activists advocating for social justice in Bangladesh. The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement has been vocal in its efforts to address inequality and discrimination, making its leaders potential targets of hostility.
As investigations progress, calls for accountability and enhanced security measures for activists grow louder. The incident underscores the risks faced by individuals championing social causes in volatile environments.
