If Chatro League Affiliation a Crime, Sarjis Alam is also a Criminal” Says Mahdi

Mahdi Hasan, Secretary of the Hobiganj District Committee of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, has made a provocative statement linking allegations against him to a broader political context. In a recent video message, Mahdi declared, “If being associated with the Chhatra League is a crime, then Sarjis Alam, the chief organiser of the National Citizens’ Party (NCP) in northern Bangladesh, is also a criminal.”

Sarjis Alam is the joint candidate of an 11-party alliance contesting the Panchagarh-1 parliamentary seat. Mahdi’s comment highlights what he calls the dangers of “political tagging,” where former student leaders or political affiliates are targeted for alleged wrongdoing. He added, “Many innocent people who were once connected with the Chhatra League or the Awami League are now being accused unjustly. This practice has spread widely across the country.”

The controversy comes after allegations against Mahdi Hasan himself. According to police reports, he was accused of publicly threatening the officer-in-charge of Shayestaganj Police Station and facilitating the release of a former banned Chhatra League leader. Mahdi was subsequently arrested, prompting his supporters to stage a protest outside the police station.

Police sources detailed the sequence of events: early on Friday, a Chhatra League member named Nayon was taken into custody by Shayestaganj Police. Mahdi, leading a group of students, attempted to secure Nayon’s release, claiming him to be a “July fighter.” Tensions escalated into verbal confrontations, during which Mahdi asserted his role as a movement leader and cited examples of previous violent incidents.

Hobiganj Superintendent of Police, Yasmin Khatun, confirmed Mahdi’s arrest, noting that the specific charges would be disclosed later. Regarding Nayon, she clarified, “He was previously a Chhatra League leader but is no longer affiliated.”

The video of Mahdi Hasan’s confrontation has since gone viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism. Authorities report that the situation is now under control and a formal investigation is ongoing.

Summary of Recent Events

Mahdi Hasan’s remarks underscore ongoing tensions in Bangladeshi student and political activism, raising debates about the line between legitimate political affiliation and criminal liability.