After the legal actions against Shakib Al Hasan, a case has been filed against 90 individuals. It includes the ex-Bangladeshi cricket captain and former Awami League member from Narail 2 constituency Mashrafe Bin Mortaza. Also, his father Golam Mortaza Swapan, and other political figures were accused of planning attacks on students and other public members during the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement.
Since his retirement from international cricket, Mashrafe enhanced his popularity as a famous figure in Bangladesh. He joined the Awami League political party led by Sheikh Hasina, who was the Prime Minister during that time.
The secretary of the BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party) Sheikh Mostafa Al-Muzahidur Rahman Palash posed charges on Mashrafe and 90 others at the Narail Sadar Police Station on September 10. This incident follows the previous filing of the murder case against another former Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan.
Complaint Against Mashrafe Bin Mortaza and his father
According to the statement provided while filing a case, Mashrafe and his father were present during the rally conducted at Narail junction on August 4 (Sunday). It was mentioned that both of them were equipped with dangerous weapons and arms during the protest. Furthermore, the case statement was provided such that Mashrafe and Golam fired a few bullets during the incident, which left several protestors wounded.
It was reported that Mashrafe’s house was set on fire on August 6 (Tuesday) as the Bangladeshis proceeded with their protests during which the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down from her position and fled from the country.
Along with Mashrafe who was accused as the primary culprit in the case, his father and other main local leaders from the ruling party were charged as the defendants, which included at least 400 to 500 unknown individuals. The case was filed on September 10 and so far there haven’t been any arrests made. Saiful Islam, the Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Narail Sardar Police Station confirmed that the news is true.
Mashrafe’s Return To Cricket Remains Uncertain: A Similar Situation for Shakib Al Hasan
Recently, Mashrage became the headlines for confirming his participation in the US Masters T10 cricket tournament that is scheduled between 8th November to 12th November 2024 in Texas and was named in the Detroit Falcons Squad.
The 40-year-old former Bangladeshi pace bowler in his previous interviews explained his disappointment for not being able to satisfy the public expectations and his inability to represent his nation during crucial moments.
If any severe actions are taken against Mashrafe Bin Mortaza, then there are chances that his participation could be limited in the forthcoming tournament.
Mashrafe Bin Mortaza’s Situation: Similar To Shakib Al Hasan
Mashrafe’s situation reminds us of a similar situation of Shakib Al Hasan, who was found guilty in a separate case among 147 people being accused in a murder case during the political crisis in the nation. The 37-year-old veteran all-rounder was charged with the death of a garment worker Mohammed Rubel, although he wasn’t directly involved in the incident. But, being a member of parliament (MP) of the Awami League Party, he is considered the main reason for Rubel’s death. A case was filed at Adabor police station in Dhaka by Rubel’s father Rafiqul Islam.
While Shakib was busy participating in the 2-match test series against Pakistan, there were many demands to eliminate him from the squad. Despite facing huge pressure in his personal life, he contributed with a decent performance in Bangladesh’s 2–0 historic victory on Pakistan soil. Also, the Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto showered praises on Shakib who maintained a balance in his professional life even after facing severe backlash from the public.
Later, Shakib didn’t return to Bangladesh and traveled to England to participate in the ongoing Country Championship for Surrey at the Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton. He contributed well with the ball in the first innings against Somerset with his excellent bowling figures of 4-97 in 33.5 overs, which included 4 maiden overs. Currently, Shakib is ready to travel to India to participate in the 2-match test series starting on September 19.
Similarly, Mashrafe Bin Mortaza could face a parallel scenario of Shakib Al Hasan as he might play matches outside the country but has severe threat in his own nation.
Public Reaction to Charges on Mashrafe: Overall Facts
Fans and supporters of Mashrafe Bin Mortaza were left shocked after the news spread like wildfire stating the legal charges imposed on him. While few of them defend him, others are demanding a detailed investigation and justice for injured students. However, the situation remains tense highlighting the complex and controversial nature of politics in Bangladesh. Finally, the cricketing world is waiting to observe how Mashrafe handles the challenges in his political life and performs well in the forthcoming US Masters T10 League 2024.
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