Model Misty Subhash detained while paying tribute at Savar memorial

A solemn Independence Day tribute at the National Memorial in Savar has taken a dramatic turn when Bangamata Cultural Alliance leader Shimu Akter Brishti, popularly known as Misty Subhash, was detained and later placed in police custody for questioning in a case filed under the Anti-Terrorism Act.

Dhaka Senior Judicial Magistrate Tajul Islam Sohag issued the order on Friday after hearing a plea from the investigation officer, according to defence lawyer Md Khayer Uddin Sikdar.

While Misty was ordered to police custody for two days, Rafiqul Islam Durjoy, also detained with her, was placed on a three-day remand in the same case.

Police later filed a case with Ashulia Police under the Anti-Terrorism Act, alleging that 22 to 25 activists of the Awami League, banned from carrying out all political activities, gathered in front of the main altar, attempting to create unrest and destabilise law and order.

According to the complaint, they carried placards bearing images of ousted Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and shouted slogans including “Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu”, “We reject the illegal government born of an illegal election”, and “Sheikh Hasina will return, Bangladesh will smile”.

Investigators alleged the gathering was intended to create a provocative situation inside the country.

On Friday, Sub-Inspector Md Shahiduzzaman sought five days’ remand for each suspect, while the defence appealed for bail and dismissal of the remand request. The court, after hearing both sides, granted remand.

Following the July Uprising that ousted the Awami League government, authorities imposed a ban on all party activities in May last year and suspended its registration as a political party.

Hasina has since been sentenced to death in a crimes against humanity case linked to the Uprising, alongside multiple prison terms in corruption cases related to Purbachal plots.

She and several senior leaders remain in India, while those inside the country have largely stayed out of public view due to the ban.

Despite restrictions, sporadic flash protests by party activists have continued, with police making arrests at different times.

Misty first drew widespread attention on Sept 29, 2024, when she was harassed at Dhaka University while attempting to mark Hasina’s birthday.

She was later detained on Dec 14 at Dhanmondi 32 and spent nearly four months in jail in multiple cases, including attempted murder.

Earlier, on Feb 21, she and several others paid tribute at the Central Shaheed Minar in support of Hasina without facing any obstruction.

She again drew headlines after leading a march at Moghbazar, carrying portraits of Sheikh Mujib and Hasina while playing the historic Mar 7 speech.