Latif Siddique’s bail plea withdrawn in anti-terrorism case

The bail applications of seven individuals, including former minister Abdul Latif Siddique, were submitted in a case under the Anti-Terrorism Act. 

However, Siddique’s bail application was withdrawn just before the scheduled hearing. 

The court rejected the bail pleas of the other six accused: Golam Mostafa, Zakir Hossain, Md. Toushiful Bari Khan, Amir Hossain Sumon, Md. Shafiqul Islam Delwar, and Abdullahil Qayum.

The hearing was set for Wednesday in the court of Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Sefatullah. 

Both the accused and state lawyers were present, but Siddique’s bail application was withdrawn during the proceedings. 

Siddique has been in custody since August 29 in connection with the Anti-Terrorism Act case filed with Shahbagh Police Station.

Siddique’s lawyer, Tahmeem Mahima Badhan, explained that Siddique initially hesitated to sign the power of attorney but did so after reviewing ZI Khan Panna’s document. 

Badhan noted that Siddique, being elderly and unwell, was scheduled for a bail hearing supported by a medical report. 

However, the family failed to provide the report in time, leading to the withdrawal of the application.

State Prosecutor Muhammad Shamsuddoha Sumon stated that 16 individuals, including Siddique, were arrested last Friday for alleged anti-state and terrorist activities aimed at destabilising the country and reinstating “fascist Hasina.” 

He claimed Siddique and others plotted to overthrow the interim government through armed struggle under the banner of “Manch 71.” Sumon added that Siddique, who previously expressed distrust in the court, applied for bail but withdrew it after anticipating strong opposition from the state.

On Friday, Siddique, Hafizur Rahman (Curzon), Md. Abdullah Al Amin, and 13 others were sent to jail in this case.