Bangladesh Student Leader Held at Delhi Airport in Hindu Police Officer Murder Case

A Bangladeshi student leader accused in the 2024 killing of a Hindu police officer in Bangladesh was detained at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport while allegedly attempting to travel to Europe, according to sources. After being held for questioning and completing immigration procedures, he was deported back to Bangladesh.

The individual, identified as Ahmed Raza Hasan Mehdi, is a student coordinator from Bangladesh’s Habiganj district. The district was the site of violent unrest in August 2024, during which Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury was killed by a mob amid widespread protests and political turmoil.

Detention at Delhi Airport

Immigration authorities intercepted Mehdi before he could board an international flight. Officials acted on intelligence inputs and detained him at the airport. Following verification procedures, authorities deported him to Bangladesh.

In a video recorded from the airport, Mehdi alleged that he was mistreated during detention and claimed he would pursue action after returning home. Authorities have not issued an official statement regarding the allegations.

Sources said the detention lasted a short period during which officials examined his documents and electronic devices as part of standard procedures.

Background of the 2024 Killing

Sub-Inspector Santosh Chowdhury was killed on August 5, 2024, during mob violence at the Baniyachang Police Station in Habiganj. The unrest coincided with nationwide protests and political upheaval on the same day former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left office.

Reports from that period indicated widespread violence, arson, and attacks on minority communities. Several incidents targeted Hindu homes and places of worship, intensifying concerns over communal tensions.

Chowdhury’s killing drew significant attention due to the brutality of the attack and allegations that he was specifically targeted. He had been married for less than a year at the time of his death, and his child was born months later. He was also the only son of his parents.

Earlier that day, clashes between protesters and police in the Baniyachang area resulted in multiple casualties, adding to the chaos in the region.

Alleged Confession and Investigation

Mehdi had earlier claimed responsibility for the officer’s killing in a video recorded inside a police station in Bangladesh. The footage circulated widely on social media, drawing attention from law enforcement agencies.

Authorities reportedly tracked his movements and detained him in Delhi before he could leave the region. Officials completed necessary procedures before deporting him to Bangladesh, where further legal proceedings are expected.

Security and Diplomatic Sensitivities

The incident highlights the importance of cross-border intelligence coordination and immigration vigilance in handling individuals linked to serious criminal cases.

It also underscores ongoing concerns regarding communal violence, political unrest, and the protection of minority communities in South Asia.

Further developments are expected as Bangladeshi authorities proceed with legal action and investigate the circumstances surrounding the 2024 killing.