Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) expressed deep concern regarding the overall process of detention, custody, arrest, and court presentation of former Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury.
Senior Coordinator of ASK Abu Ahmed Faijul Kabir made the remarks in press release on Thursday.
According to media reports, Shirin Sharmin visited a relative’s house in Dhanmondi, Dhaka on 6 April. Late that night, police arrived at the scene, detained her, and took her to the Detective Branch (DB) office.
ASK questioned the justification for detaining a citizen, particularly a woman, in the middle of the night.
It emphasised that it should be clarified whether the arrest could have been conducted through a more transparent and systematic process during the day, noting that maintaining necessity and transparency in the application of law is an essential responsibility of the state.
The organisation also highlighted the chaotic situation reported during her presentation in court, stating it was inconsistent with minimum levels of discipline and dignity. Due to a lack of security and management at the court premises, she was seen caught in a scuffle, which was unacceptable.
ASK said ensuring the security, honour, and dignity of every person seeking justice is an inseparable part of the state’s duty.
The organisation added that it is essential to strictly follow the prevailing laws, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and High Court directives regarding arrest and remand. Any deviation or laxity is inconsistent with the fundamental principles of justice and could undermine a citizen’s constitutional rights.
The statement recalled a notice from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on 22 May 2025, which mentioned that 626 individuals had taken shelter in various cantonments for security reasons following the fall of the Awami League (AL) government on 5 August 2024. Shirin Sharmin’s name was included in that list.
As no formal or clear information regarding her subsequent location had been made public, her sudden arrest raised various questions.
ASK reminded all state organs – including law enforcement, the administration, and the judiciary – of their constitutional obligation to protect human rights. This responsibility is even more significant for the current government, which came to power with a public mandate and an electoral pledge to ensure the rule of law and constitutional rights.
It called for a clear and effective reflection of those commitments to ensure that state conduct towards every citizen reflects justice, transparency, and humanity.
The organisation urged authorities to take effective measures to prevent such situations in the future.
