ASK demands fair probe into alleged custodial death in Madaripur
The rights group also condemned the reported harassment of Imtiaz Hossain Rocky at the Mirpur Darus Salam army camp in the capital's Pallabi
The Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed grave concern over the alleged custodial death of a young man detained in a joint forces operation in Madaripur.
In a statement issued today (9 February), the rights group condemned the death of Russell Kazi, 29, who was detained during a joint forces operation in Kalkini upazila of Madaripur district, as well as the reported harassment of Imtiaz Hossain Rocky at the Mirpur Darus Salam army camp in the capital's Pallabi area.
It also demanded a fair, independent and impartial investigation into both incidents.
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According to media reports and family allegations, Russell Kazi was picked up by joint forces on the morning of 7 February. He reportedly died on 8 February while in custody. Family members and local residents alleged that he was subjected to torture during detention.
ASK said the circumstances surrounding the death raise serious concerns and warrant an immediate, impartial investigation to establish accountability.
The rights organisation also highlighted another incident reported on 9 February involving Imtiaz Hossain Rocky, the brother of Ishtiaq Hossain Jony, who died in police custody at Pallabi Police Station in 2014. Rocky is the plaintiff in the ongoing murder case.
According to the allegations, army personnel entered Rocky's home around 3:10am without a warrant, conducted a search and took him to the Mirpur Darus Salam army camp.
ASK said Rocky was allegedly forced to stand beside an illegal firearm while photographs were taken, threatened with consequences if he protested, and compelled to sign a document without being allowed to read it.
The organisation described the alleged acts as harassment, psychological intimidation and an attempt to falsely implicate a citizen who has no criminal record and is himself a plaintiff in a custodial death case.
It said the two incidents constitute clear violations of fundamental rights guaranteed under Articles 31, 32 and 35 of the Constitution, as well as the Torture and Death in Custody (Prevention) Act, 2013, relevant provisions of the Penal Code, and the United Nations Convention against Torture.
Calling for urgent action, ASK demanded the formation of an independent and impartial investigation committee and urged the authorities to ensure the safety and security of the victims and their families.
