Ramesh Chandra Sen, former Bangladeshi Water Resources Minister and five-time MP, died in custody at age 85. Arrested in August 2024 amid political turmoil following Sheikh Hasina’s fall, Sen suffered multiple health issues and reportedly lacked proper medical care in jail.
Former Hindu Minister Ramesh Sen Dies in Jail
Dhaka: Former Bangladesh Water Resources Minister and five-time MP Ramesh Chandra Sen died in custody on Saturday. Sen, 85, was found seriously ill and taken from the Dinajpur District Jail to the Dinajpur Medical College Hospital, where he was declared dead.
Ramesh Chandra Sen suffered from multiple ailments and was also advanced in age. His family and supporters in prison say he was not receiving the medical care he deserved as a former minister. Although authorities stated that his death was due to natural causes, many believe it to be a case of custodial death and political vendetta.
Ramesh Chandra Sen was arrested in August 2024 after the collapse of the Awami League (AL) government. Photographs of his arrest showed him tied with ropes used for cattle. He was charged with three counts at the time, including murder.
Political tensions in Bangladesh reached a peak after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government in August 2024. Several Awami League leaders were arrested in fabricated cases and accused of political vendetta. Following Sen's death, his supporters on Bangladeshi social media are calling it a "custodial killing" and "murder in prison."
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At least five top Awami League leaders have died after being detained. Dhaka-based content creator Pradip Kumar Chowdhury wrote on Facebook that the attribution of Sen's death to illness is false and described it as part of the ongoing political genocide since August 5, 2024. According to him, this adds another name to the list of hundreds of murders.
Ramesh Chandra Sen was known for his helpful nature and unblemished political career. Instead of leaving the country, he remained in Bangladesh and continued his duties. His death in custody is a matter of concern not only for his family and supporters but also for the political situation in Bangladesh.
