Judiciary Issues Ultimatum Following Rajshahi Attack
The Bangladesh Judicial Service Association (BJSA) has issued a stern ultimatum to the government, threatening a nationwide 'pens-down' work stoppage starting Sunday, November 16, 2025. The judges demand that their two key conditions be met within 48 hours of their statement, which was signed on Friday, November 14, 2025. This decisive action comes in the wake of a brutal attack at the residence of Rajshahi Metropolitan Sessions Judge Mohammad Abdur Rahman, which resulted in the death of his son, Tawshif Rahman Sumon, and serious injuries to his wife, Tasmin Nahar.
Two Core Demands for Judicial Security and Accountability
The BJSA's ultimatum centers on two critical demands aimed at ensuring the safety and proper functioning of the judiciary across Bangladesh:
- Enhanced Security Measures: The association calls for the immediate deployment of adequate security forces at all courts, judges' residences, and during their travel.
- Action Against Negligent Police: The judges demand strict action against police personnel accused of negligence in ensuring the security of the judge involved in the Rajshahi incident. Furthermore, they seek accountability for the alleged unlawful and unprofessional presentation of the arrested suspect before the media.
The incident that triggered this ultimatum occurred on Thursday, November 13, 2025, when Tawshif Rahman Sumon, son of Judge Rahman, was fatally stabbed, and his mother gravely injured during an attack at their home in Rajshahi.
Long-Standing Security Concerns Highlighted
The BJSA emphasized that the judiciary performs 'some of the most important and high-risk duties of the state,' yet judges and their families remain 'vulnerable and insecure.' The association highlighted a history of 'consistent inaction' by the government despite repeated communications from the Supreme Court urging improved security measures for court premises, courtrooms, judges' residences, and official vehicles.
Many judges, particularly at the district and magistracy levels, reportedly lack adequate government housing and transportation facilities. This forces them to reside in unsecured rented accommodations and rely on public transport like rickshaws and vans, exposing them to significant risks. In a symbolic act of protest and mourning, judges nationwide are expected to wear black badges on Sunday.
Potential Impact of the Strike
Should the government fail to meet the demands within the stipulated 48-hour period, the threatened 'pens-down' strike would halt judicial activities across Bangladesh, potentially causing widespread disruption to the country's legal system.
5 Comments
Michelangelo
The government clearly needs to prioritize judicial security; this article highlights a severe failure. However, a strike puts immense pressure on the system, and perhaps dialogue should be exhausted before such drastic measures.
Coccinella
While the attack on the judge's family is horrific and security is vital, a nationwide strike will severely impact ordinary people seeking justice. There must be a better way to negotiate.
Habibi
Government negligence is clear. This ultimatum is the only way to get attention.
Muchacha
The demands for enhanced security and accountability for police negligence are completely valid given the tragic incident. Yet, stopping all judicial activities might create a vacuum that criminals could exploit.
Bella Ciao
Holding the country hostage for personal security? What about ordinary citizens?