Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief and former West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday made a startling claim that she is aware of those behind a high-profile murder in Bangladesh, triggering reactions from Dhaka and renewed political speculation.
Speaking at a protest rally in Kolkata’s Dharmatala, Mamata Banerjee stated that she possesses key information about the killing of a Bangladeshi political activist but chose not to reveal details, citing concerns over potential unrest.
“I know who carried out the murder. Even if the government changes today, I still know everything,” she said, adding that disclosing the names could create turmoil in Bangladesh.
She also claimed that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had personally requested her not to make details of the arrests public, citing “national interest.”
Bangladesh distances itself from political remarks
Responding to the remarks, Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Shama Obaed, said Dhaka would not engage with statements made by political figures in another country, emphasising that the issue is being handled through formal diplomatic channels.
“An election has taken place in another country, and a political leader has made certain remarks. That is not our matter to discuss,” Obaed said while addressing the media.
She reiterated that Bangladesh remains focused on securing justice and is in active communication with the Government of India.
Dhaka pushes for extradition of accused
Obaed confirmed that both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangladesh are working closely on the matter, with “significant progress” already made.
“We want justice for Hadi’s murder. Efforts are underway, and we expect those arrested in India to be returned,” she said, underscoring Dhaka’s demand for extradition so that legal proceedings can take place in Bangladesh.
STF arrests linked to case
Mamata Banerjee’s remarks are believed to refer to the killing of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, spokesperson of Bangladesh’s Inquilab Mancha, whose murder had sparked widespread unrest.
Earlier this year, the West Bengal Police’s Special Task Force (STF) arrested key suspects in connection with the case. According to police sources, the main accused—Faisal Karim Masud alias Rahul and Alamgir Hossain—had entered West Bengal through Meghalaya before being apprehended.
Another accused, Philip Sangma, was later arrested near Shantipur in Nadia district. The Detective Branch of Dhaka Metropolitan Police had earlier identified Faisal as the principal suspect.
Speculation intensifies over sensitive claims
While Mamata Banerjee did not explicitly name the case, her references to the arrests have intensified speculation regarding her claims and the identities of those allegedly involved.
Observers note that her remarks have added a new dimension to the investigation, raising questions about cross-border coordination and the handling of sensitive information.
Authorities in both India and Bangladesh continue to pursue the matter through legal and diplomatic channels.
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