A major controversy has erupted in Bangladesh after a photo showing former Industries Minister and Sheikh Hasina aide Nurul Majid Mahmud Humayun allegedly in handcuffs while lying in a hospital bed went viral on social media. The image, which surfaced shortly after he died in jail custody, sparked outrage, with many claiming he remained shackled even after passing away.
Nurul Majid, arrested on September 24 in connection with multiple cases linked to attacks during the 2024 anti-discrimination movement, died while being treated in the ICU at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. He had been suffering from several age-related illnesses and had multiple hospital admissions during his detention.
Human rights activists and lawyers condemned the reported handcuffing, calling it a serious violation of human rights. Nur Khan Liton described it as “inhuman and a stark violation of human rights,” while advocate Abu Obyaidur Rahman highlighted that handcuffing an elderly, sick prisoner violates High Court directives and prison regulations. Supreme Court lawyer Jyotirmoy Barua called it “a violation of the constitution” and criticized the selective application of law.
Jail authorities refuted the allegations, calling the claims misleading and stating that Nurul Majid was treated with dignity and proper care throughout his hospital stay. Senior Jail Superintendent Suraiya Akhter explained that prisoners may be handcuffed for security during hospital visits, and the viral photo may have been taken during an earlier admission, not at the time of death.
Dhaka Medical College Hospital supported this explanation, clarifying that the photo was from Nurul Majid’s initial visit to the hospital and that jail police maintain custody of prisoners during treatment. Brigadier General Md Asaduzzaman stated the hospital only provides care and does not control security measures.
Bangladesh Home Secretary Md Nasimul Gani labeled the viral image as doctored and part of a misinformation campaign. He reiterated that Nurul Majid received treatment in the presence of family and doctors and stated that an investigation could be conducted if concerns persist.
The controversy has intensified debate over prisoners’ rights and human dignity in custody, with demands for accountability from civil society and human rights organizations.
