Satkhira MP Arrested After Wife’s Death Sparks Large Protests
Gazi Nazrul Islam, the Member of Parliament for Satkhira-4, has been arrested. This follows the death of his second wife, Mariam Khatun. A large protest rally in Shyamnagar demanded a proper investigation into Mariam’s passing.
More than 100 people gathered at the bus stand intersection in Shyamnagar upazila headquarters today. They carried banners and chanted slogans against MP Gazi Nazrul Islam. Protesters showed their anger by making an effigy of the lawmaker. They then marched to Shyamnagar Press Club and set the effigy on fire.
Mariam Khatun, aged 19, was found hanging in a Dhaka flat on Sunday evening. Police said they found a note at the scene. A forensic examination will confirm if Mariam wrote this note.
Mariam’s father, Masum Billah, filed a case with Sher-e-Bangla Nagar police station. He accused Gazi Nazrul Islam, his first wife Maksuda Begum, and Mariam’s uncle Obaidur Rahman. Police have arrested MP Gazi Nazrul Islam and his first wife in connection with this case.
Local resident Asadul Islam, a protester, said he believes Mariam faced great abuse. He suggested this abuse led her to take her own life. Protesters strongly condemned this incident. They demanded justice and the highest punishment for those responsible.
Rafiqul Islam, a protest participant, mentioned past allegations against the MP. He said Gazi Nazrul Islam was accused of harming young women with job promises. Mr. Islam believes an attempt was made to cover up these issues through marriage. He suspects Mariam’s death was not a normal suicide and called for a full investigation.
Earlier, a video of MP Gazi Nazrul Islam with Mariam went viral online. The MP later stated she was his second wife. Following this, Jamaat-e-Islami expelled him from the party. Protesters want to ensure everyone involved in Mariam’s death is investigated.
