Constable in Kushtia suspended for making ‘derogatory remarks’ about July Uprising

A police constable in Kushtia has been suspended for making “derogatory remarks” about the July Uprising on social media.

District Police Superintendent Mizanur Rahman said on Saturday, “As the investigation has found primary evidence, it has been recommended to suspend and dismiss Constable Farzul Islam Rony.”

On Jul 1, Rony made a Facebook post about the student-led mass uprising that toppled the Awami League government, but deleted it shortly afterwards.

He later claimed his account had been hacked. The post, however, had already drawn widespread criticism.

That night, leaders and activists of the Anti-discrimination Student Movement protested in front of the district superintendent of police’s office on the Kushtia-Ishurdi Highway, demanding Rony’s arrest and dismissal.

On Jul 2, a committee was formed to investigate the incident, comprising Additional Superintendent of Police Sikder Mohammad Hasan Imam, Additional Superintendent of Police (Sadar Circle) Pranab Kumar, and Inspector Debashish Roy.

Anti-discrimination Student Movement’s (Kushtia) Member Secretary Mostafizur Rahman said, “There is no opportunity to belittle the July achieved through the sacrifices of the students and the public against the fascist regime. This step taken against Rony will set an example.”

Rony hails from Shailkupa Upazila of Jhenaidah. He had been working in the Kushtia Traffic Department since Jul 13, 2023. A police official said he is currently in hiding.