Former Student Leader Mahdi Questioned at Shahjalal Airport

Mahdi Hasan, the former coordinator of the anti-discrimination student movement and general secretary of the Habiganj district branch, was questioned by authorities upon his return to Bangladesh at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.

Mahdi landed in Dhaka on Wednesday (18 February) at 3:40 pm, arriving from Delhi aboard an IndiGo Airlines flight. Upon reaching the immigration counter, police officials reportedly began interrogating him. Airport sources confirmed the incident.

According to sources, Mahdi is currently under police custody for questioning, and his detention may be formalised.

Prior to his return, Mahdi spoke on Facebook Live from Delhi airport, describing his experience: “I am speaking from Delhi Airport. What has happened to me will be disclosed at a press conference once I am back in Bangladesh. I was held by police for nearly 40 minutes. I attempted to contact our country’s embassy, but despite this, I was treated poorly. After a rapid immigration process, I am being sent home.”

The questioning is linked to an incident on 1 January at Shayestaganj Police Station in Habiganj. At that time, Mahdi reportedly visited the station following the arrest of a young man named Enamul Hasan Noyon. He allegedly made threatening remarks against the on-duty officer, including statements referencing past violent acts in Baniachang. Subsequently, police arrested Mahdi, although he was released on bail within 24 hours amid protests from student groups.

Following the 13th parliamentary elections held on 12 February, Mahdi left Bangladesh, prompting concerns over his movements and the circumstances surrounding his return. Authorities have indicated that the questioning aims to clarify his recent activities abroad as well as his previous involvement in incidents of public threat.

Key Details of Mahdi Hasan’s Return

The situation continues to attract attention from political observers and student organisations, with many closely monitoring developments related to Mahdi’s questioning and potential legal proceedings.