Dhaka: Another Hindu man has died in Bangladesh.
This time, it’s Awami League leader Proloy Chaki.
Chaki, a popular singer of the 1990s and cultural secretary of Awami League’s Pabna district, died in Rajshahi prison on Sunday night after reportedly suffering a heart attack.
However, Chaki’s family claimed that he was tortured in custody and denied medical treatment.
Chaki was arrested in a “false case” that was fabricated against him, the family said.
According to his relatives, Chaki’s condition deteriorated suddenly on Sunday evening, but prison officials
failed to act promptly despite being aware of his pre-existing medical issues and did not ensure timely hospitalisation.
There were allegations that Chaki was subjected to torture while in custody, which has led to anger and outrage among Awami League workers and party supporters.
Chaki’s death has once again highlighted concerns over the safety of Hindus and political detainees, especially those from Awami League.
Several party members and supporters of deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s party have been arrested on fabricated charges and subjected to custodial abuse since August 2024.
Awami League linked Chaki’s death to administrative high-handedness, reflecting pressure being exerted by the Yunus-led interim government on political opponents.
Now, the pressure is squarely on the administration amid demands for a thorough independent inquiry.
Chaki was as a prominent figure in his region, who combined music with grassroots mobilisation for the Awami League.