Expelled Jamaat activist jailed for kicking woman welcomed with floral tribute after conditional bail

Expelled Jamaat-e-Islami activist Akash Chowdhury was greeted with a floral tribute by supporters upon his release from jail, just days after being arrested for physically assaulting a woman during a protest in Chattogram - a moment that was caught on video and widely condemned across the country.

The assault took place on 28 May, during a demonstration  in Chattogram organised by the Democratic Students' Alliance, who were protesting the controversial acquittal of Jamaat leader ATM Azharul Islam. 

Azharul, previously sentenced to death for crimes against humanity during the 1971 Liberation War, had his conviction overturned, sparking widespread backlash and student-led protests.

During the Chattogram rally, a counter-group called the "Shahbagh Opposition Unity" confronted the protesters near the Chattogram Press Club. Amid the chaos, Akash Chowdhury was filmed approaching from behind and violently kicking two women, while police officers stood nearby. 

The 15-second video clip quickly spread across social and news media, drawing nationwide outrage.

Following public pressure, police arrested Akash on 1 June in the city's Lal Dighi area. He was sent to jail in connection with a case filed under the Speedy Trial Act, while two other individuals, Obaidur and Selim, were also detained.

On 4 June, Chattogram Metropolitan Magistrate Abu Bakkar Siddique granted Akash bail on the condition that he must appear in court daily starting 15 June.

Jamaat-e-Islami's Chattogram unit officially expelled Akash on 30 May, attempting to distance the party from the attack by labeling it a personal act. However, among those who welcomed Akash Chowdhury with a floral garland was Abrar Hasan Riyad, a leader of Islami Chhatra Shibir's Chattogram North unit. 

Riyad was also seen leading the group involved in the assault during the 28 May protest. 

Despite this, Islami Chhatra Shibir Chattogram North issued a statement denying any involvement in the incident, claiming, "The organisation has no connection with the incident. False propaganda is being spread by deliberately linking Shibir's name." 

Riyad's presence both during the attack and at Akash's post-jail reception casts doubt on the statement.

The viral photo of Akash smiling and being welcomed with a floral tribute upon his release has reignited fury across the country, especially from women's rights activists and civil society members.