International: Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of Bangladesh, KM Nurul Huda, was physically assaulted by a mob while in police custody in Dhaka on Sunday evening. The incident has sparked widespread outrage and concern over public vigilantism. Huda, 75, was arrested by Uttara Police in connection with a case, the details of which have not been disclosed.
Eyewitness videos that quickly went viral on social media platforms showed a group of people attacking Huda, pelting him with shoes and slapping him while shouting slogans. The former CEC was seen in a lungi and T-shirt, visibly distressed as he was led away by law enforcement. The video footage has been widely condemned, with many calling for action to be taken against those involved in the assault.
The Bangladesh interim government acknowledged the incident in an official statement, confirming the arrest and expressing concern over the unruly behavior of the mob. “The chaotic situation created by the mob and the physical assault of the accused has come to the attention of the government. We urge citizens not to take the law into their own hands,” the statement read.
Nurul Huda served as the Chief Election Commissioner from 2017 to 2022 and oversaw the controversial 2018 general elections. The attack on Huda has intensified debate surrounding his tenure as CEC and raised concerns about the country’s political tensions spilling into acts of public violence. Authorities have not confirmed whether any action will be taken against those involved in the assault, but officials have reiterated the importance of upholding the rule of law and ensuring the safety of individuals in custody.
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