Mizanur Rahman, a leader of the banned Awami League’s youth wing (Jubo League), was released on bail Tuesday night following his arrest for allegedly assaulting a member of Chief Adviser (CA) Muhammad Yunus-led Bangladesh’s UNGA delegation by throwing eggs in public.
Rahman was taken into custody by New York police on Monday night from outside the Nabanna Restaurant in Jackson Heights, hours after the incident occurred. He was released on bail at approximately 9pm on Tuesday, sources in New York said.
The attack took place shortly after CA Muhammad Yunus arrived in New York to attend the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session. As his delegation exited John F Kennedy International Airport, supporters of the Awami League began chanting slogans and confronting them.
Among the delegation were BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, BNP acting chairman’s foreign affairs adviser Humayun Kabir, National Citizens’ Party (NCP) Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, and NCP Senior Joint Member Secretary Tasnim Zara. They were targeted by ruling party supporters who shouted slogans and created a hostile scene.
In a dramatic escalation, Akhtar Hossain was pelted with eggs, while Tasnim Zara was subjected to nasty verbal abuse and profanities. Protesters affiliated with the Awami League and its youth front were reportedly behind the attack.
Members of the press wing and BNP supporters attempted to shield the delegation and usher them to safety. In response to the assault, Akhtar Hossain raised slogans of “Inquilab Zindabad” in protest. The delegation eventually left the airport vicinity under police escort.
The incident reflects growing political rift among Bangladeshi diaspora groups in the USA, especially in light of high-profile visits like that of CA Muhammad Yunus.
New York authorities have not yet disclosed if any charges will be formally pressed against Mizanur Rahman.
