Dhaka [Bangladesh], June 23: Former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of Bangladesh, Nurul Huda, was physically assaulted by a mob in Dhaka on Sunday while in police custody, sparking public outrage and prompting a stern response from the Bangladesh interim government.
Viral Video Shows Mob Attacking Huda with Shoes
Footage that quickly spread across social media showed Huda being pelted with shoes, including blows to the face, as police tried to escort him. He was reportedly wearing a lungi and T-shirt at the time of arrest by Uttara Police Station. Loud anti-Huda slogans were also heard during the assault.
Government Responds: “Do Not Take the Law Into Your Own Hands”
In an official statement, the interim government, led by Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus, confirmed Huda’s arrest in connection with a specific case and condemned the mob attack.
“Attacking and physically assaulting the accused is illegal, against the rule of law, and a criminal offence,” the government said, urging citizens to refrain from mob justice.
It added that those involved in the violence would be identified and prosecuted, and emphasized that “all accused persons will be tried in accordance with the laws of the land.”
Background: Nurul Huda’s Tenure and Political Fallout
Nurul Huda served as Bangladesh’s CEC from 2017 to 2022 and oversaw the controversial 2018 general elections, in which Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League won by a landslide. Huda’s tenure was widely criticized for alleged electoral irregularities and bias.
Hasina was ousted in August 2024 following a student-led uprising, fleeing to India, and replaced by the current interim administration. Since then, several figures associated with the previous regime have faced legal action and public backlash.
Statement Calls for Restraint Amid Growing Mob Incidents
The government acknowledged an increase in mob attacks on individuals and institutions post-regime change and appealed for civic tolerance and respect for judicial processes:
“All citizens are being requested to play a tolerant role in the struggle for establishing justice.”