BDR Mutiny trial at Alia madrasa field cancelled, students end road blockade

Following the announcement that the BDR mutiny trial proceedings would no longer take place at the Government Alia Madrasa field in Bakshibazar, the madrasa students ended their road blockade on Thursday.

Unidentified individuals on Wednesday night set fire to the temporary courtroom at the Government Alia Madrasa field in Bakshibazar, damaging documents and furniture.

Special Tribunal 2 Judge Ibrahim Mia, Public Prosecutor Mohammad Borhanuddin and other court officials inspected the site Thursday morning, alongside some defense lawyers.

The temporary courtroom was established for the trial of the 2009 BDR mutiny case, which was scheduled to resume on Thursday.

However, students had been protesting, demanding the return of their madrasa field, mentioning disruptions to academic activities.

Throughout the night and into Thursday morning, students blocked nearby roads and burned tires, closing access to the area.

To control the situation, a large police force and an army team were deployed.

Students alleged that despite previous complaints to the ministry, no action was taken, forcing them to protest.

Following the unrest, the Ministry of Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs decided to discontinue the trial proceedings at the madrasa field.

Sources indicated that damages during prior protests and student opposition made it challenging to continue trials there.

Plans are underway to move the proceedings to the temporary court at Keraniganj Central Jail, ensuring easier transportation and security for the accused, who are already housed there.

After hearing the announcement, students lifted their blockade around 12:30pm, allowing traffic to resume.

Law enforcement remains vigilant to maintain order.

Meanwhile, officials confirmed that arsonists set fire to the courtroom, with some documents and furniture burned.

Fire services were present but unable to act due to locked gates.

Source: UNB