Barisal’s Additional Chief Metropolitan Court witnessed a dramatic escalation of tension on Wednesday, 25 February, as the president of the District Lawyers’ Association, Advocate Sadikul Rahman Lincoln, was arrested by the Detective Branch (DB) police over allegations of breaching court regulations. The incident prompted widespread protests by lawyers and necessitated the deployment of the army, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and police to maintain law and order within the court premises.

According to officials, Lincoln was apprehended from his chambers at around 12:30 pm. He was subsequently presented before the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate, SM Shariat Ullah, who ordered his immediate imprisonment. Al Manun Ul Islam, Officer-in-Charge of Kotwali Model Police Station, confirmed that arrangements were underway to escort Lincoln to jail.

Lawyers’ Protests

Lincoln’s arrest triggered an immediate protest by members of the legal fraternity at the court complex. Lawyers demanded the removal of both the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate and the Additional Chief Magistrate. The demonstration, which involved gathering in front of the court guards’ enclosure, temporarily hindered the transfer of Lincoln to prison.

Despite a significant security presence—including army personnel, RAB operatives, police officers, and DB members—the atmosphere remained tense, highlighting the volatile nature of the situation and the challenges faced by law enforcement in preventing disorder.

Background of the Incident

The unrest stems from events on 24 February, when lawyers boycotted court proceedings in protest over bail granted to Advocate Talukdar Md. Yunus, General Secretary of Barisal District Awami League and former member of parliament. Later that afternoon, during court proceedings, Lincoln reportedly entered the Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate’s courtroom and damaged chairs and tables. CCTV footage of the incident circulated widely on social media.

Hafiz Ahmed Bablu, Assistant Public Prosecutor of Barisal Metropolitan Magistrate Court, stated: “While ordinary citizens are granted bail from the District Judge Court in explosive cases, banned Awami League leaders are receiving bail even from lower courts. Lawyers subsequently boycotted the court, leading to Lincoln’s arrest. We strongly condemn and protest this act.”

He added, “We urgently demand the removal of the Additional Chief Magistrate. Until this occurs, boycott actions by the lawyers’ association will continue.”

Barisal Court Violence Timeline

The incident has significantly impacted the administration of law and order, court operations, and the functioning of the lawyers’ association in Barisal, raising serious concerns over courtroom security and judicial decorum.