There might be political motive behind Shammo's murder: Rizvi

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi has alleged that there may be political motives behind the murder of Shahriar Alam Shammo, a Dhaka University student and Chhatra Dal member.

He pointed out that Shammo had posted a Facebook status condemning the desecration of the national anthem. Rizvi drew parallels to the 2019 killing of Abrar Fahad following a Facebook post criticising Indian agression.

"Just like Abrar, Shammo was killed for speaking up for the spirit of independence. I firmly believe there are political reasons behind this. Those responsible must be arrested immediately," Rizvi said.

He made these remarks today (15 May) during a human chain in front of the National Press Club, demanding justice for Shammo.

Rizvi further stated, "Shammo made a Facebook post opposing the Shahbagh protest where the national anthem was disrespected. Is that why he was killed? For the past 16 years, we have witnessed oppression and abuse by the Chhatra League. Now that they are no longer in control, why is student blood still being spilled on campus? The police must take this matter seriously and investigate thoroughly."

He also questioned the narrative that vagabonds could be behind the murder, asking, "Why would vagrants kill a Dhaka University student?"

Rizvi ended by warning the interim government against favouring any specific political group or ideology, saying that such partiality would lead to dire consequences.

Shammo, a student of the 2018–19 academic session of the Education and Research Institute of Dhaka University, also served as the Literary and Publication Secretary of Chhatra Dal's Sir AF Rahman Hall unit.

He was stabbed to death near Sunrawardy Udyan on 13 May night allegedly over an altercation following a bike accident.