Chief justice orders enhanced security measures for all courts

The move aims to ensure the safety of judges, lawyers, and court staff

Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed has instructed relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of all courts throughout Bangladesh, including the protection of judges, lawyers, and court clerks.

The directive came on Thursday following recent disruptions in the premises of the Supreme Court and district courts across the country.

A letter from the High Court division highlighted that the chief justice expressed deep concern over the “unprecedented” and “unwanted” events that have taken place in these court areas.

“To uphold the rule of law, ensure justice, and preserve the dignity of the courts, the Chief Justice has instructed authorities to guarantee security at all court and tribunal premises, courtrooms, judges' residences, and for all individuals associated with the judiciary,” it reads.

Recently, during clashes at the Chattogram court area, lawyer Saiful Islam Alif was killed when protesters attacked as Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, a spokesperson for the Sammilito Sanatani Jagaran Jote, or United Sanatan Awakening Alliance, was being escorted to prison in a sedition case.

Protesters vandalised vehicles, including motorcycles, parked on the court road.

In another incident on Wednesday, lawyers threw eggs at a High Court judge following alleged derogatory remarks about the BNP founder Ziaur Rahman.

The incident occurred during a session presided over by Justice Md Ashraful Kamal at a High Court dual bench.

This is not the first time such disruptions have occurred in court premises. Earlier, following the change of government after the mass uprising, similar incidents, including the throwing of eggs and shoes at the accused, have taken place.