Several leaders of the Anti-discrimination Students Movement in Dhaka have been accused of detaining a businessman and coercing him into signing blank checks and stamped papers recently.

The allegations centre on the Mirpur Shah Ali unit’s joint conveners, Sadman Sanjid and Rifatul Haque Shawon, along with 8-10 others, including Parvez, who serves as secretary of the student group’s Shah Ali unit committee.

Video footage of at least one such incident has circulated on social media.

Victims and witnesses allege that many of the accused identify themselves as younger brothers or close associates of Nahid Islam, the convener of the National Citizen Party (NCP). They reportedly used photos taken with Nahid Islam to assert influence in government offices.

The Director General of the Directorate of Primary Education in Mirpur confirmed that individuals claiming proximity to Nahid Islam had approached him with demands, using such photos as leverage. The official, however, declined to comment on camera.

One businessman who claims to have been assaulted said, “They beat me as they wished and forced me to sign.”
Residents allege that the group’s activities extend beyond government offices, instilling fear across several neighbourhoods in Mirpur. 

In a recent incident, they reportedly carried out an attack followed by looting. Multiple victims said they are too frightened to officially report the incidents, fearing further retaliation. “Our children are still traumatized. If they find out, they will come to our doorstep with more people,” one victim said.

When contacted, NCP Convener Nahid Islam said he was unaware of any such activities and demanded action against the accused if allegations were proven.

Sadman Sanjid and Rifatul Haque Shawon have denied all allegations. They claimed instead that they were attacked because of their alleged communication with certain Awami League leaders.

Efforts to reach the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, the student movement that toppled Hasina’s Awami League government in August 2024, central office were unsuccessful. 

The organisation’s spokesperson, Umama Fatema, did not respond to calls or messages.