Former Bangladesh parliamentary speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury was released on bail on Sunday, days after her arrest in connection with an attempted murder case linked to the 2024 student-led protests.
Released After Court Order
A court in Dhaka granted bail to the 59-year-old leader on a bond of Taka 50,000. Following verification of the order, she was released from Kashimpur Central Jail on the outskirts of the capital.
She had been arrested earlier this week by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Detective Branch.
Charges Linked to 2024 Protests
The case against Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury is tied to incidents during the July–August 2024 protests, also known as the “July Uprising,” which led to the سقوط of the government led by Sheikh Hasina.
Police allege her involvement in an attempted murder case related to violence during those protests, though her lawyers argued in court that there are no specific allegations directly linking her to the crime.
Health Concerns Raised in Court
During the hearing, her legal team highlighted her fragile health, stating she suffers from heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and has previously suffered a heart attack. They argued she was in critical condition, which contributed to the court granting bail.
A Key Political Figure
Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury made history as Bangladesh’s first female Speaker, serving from 2013 to 2024 in the Bangladesh Jatiya Sangsad. She was also elected as a Member of Parliament from Rangpur-6.
Political Context
Her arrest comes amid major political shifts in Bangladesh, following the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government and the rise of a new administration led by Tarique Rahman.
She is among the first high-profile figures from the previous regime to face legal action under the new political setup.
What’s Next
While she has secured bail, the legal proceedings are expected to continue as investigations into the 2024 protest-related violence move forward.