Singer Momtaz Begum Arrested in Student Protest Attempted Murder Case

Former Member of Parliament and prominent folk singer Momtaz Begum has been formally shown arrested in connection with the attempted murder of a protester during the anti-discrimination student movement.

The order was passed on Wednesday (24 June) by Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Ariful Islam following a formal petition submitted by the police. Sub-Inspector Azizul Haq of Mirpur Model Police Station, who is leading the investigation, presented the controversial musician-turned-politician before the court to secure the arrest warrant. Dhaka Metropolitan Public Prosecutor Omar Faruk Faruki conducted the hearing on behalf of the state, arguing strongly in favour of the law enforcement application.

According to the police petition, preliminary investigations have uncovered reliable evidence and testimonies linking the accused to the violent incidents that transpired during the civil unrest. Law enforcement officials emphasized that formally arresting her under this specific case is critical for a thorough investigation. The police also indicated that they might seek a remand order in the near future to subject the former lawmaker to extensive interrogation regarding her alleged involvement.

The case details reveal that on 4 August 2024, at the height of the mass student-led demonstrations, the complainant and victim, Mohammad Muktar Hossain, joined the protests near the Mirpur Swimming Pool and Fire Service area. In a desperate bid to suppress the uprising, law enforcement personnel and activists aligned with the then-ruling Awami League launched a coordinated assault on the peaceful gatherers, firing live ammunition and rubber bullets. Muktar Hossain was struck in the chest and torso by rubber bullets fired by the police, collapsing instantly on the road with severe injuries. He was subsequently rushed to Kurmitola General Hospital, where he underwent extensive medical treatment. Following his recovery, Muktar initiated an attempted murder case, naming Momtaz Begum as a primary suspect.

This development adds to the mounting legal woes for the singer, who has been in custody for over a year. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police’s Detective Branch originally apprehended her shortly before midnight on 12 May 2025 from a residential property situated behind the Star Kabab eatery in Dhanmondi. The Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court in Dhaka subsequently granted a four-day remand for questioning, after which she was sent to prison, where she remains detained.