Case Filed Against 29 in Bangladesh Over Banned Group's Secret Meeting

Authorities have filed a case against 29 individuals following an alleged secret meeting and torch procession conducted by the banned Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) in Fatikchhari upazila, Chattogram. Among the accused are former Chattogram City Corporation mayor Mohammad Manjur Alam and former lawmaker Khadizatul Anwar.

The case, registered under the Anti-Terrorism Act, also includes 80 to 90 unidentified individuals, according to Fatikchhari Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md Robiul Alam. Police have already arrested two suspects, Md Zaman Babu, 23, and Saiful Islam, 25, who are named as primary accused in the case.

Local sources and police reports indicate that over 100 activists from the banned student organization convened at a community center in Fatikchhari on Thursday afternoon. The gathering came to light after photographs and details circulated widely on social media. Although police raided the venue upon receiving information, the attendees had already dispersed.

During initial interrogations, the arrested individuals reportedly claimed that the meeting was held under the direct instructions of former mayor Manjur and former MP Khadizatul. The case statement further alleges that the accused were involved in a conspiracy to destabilize the state, damage public infrastructure, and carry out subversive activities.