TIB airs concern over bail to Banani rape key accused

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Sunday expressed deep concern over the bail of the main accused in Banani rape case, as the step could lengthen trial proceedings in the case.
The Dhaka chapter of the Berlin-based anti-corruption watchdog also said the accused was granted bail immediately after the judge in the responsible court was substituted.
Through a statement issued to the media, TIB demanded quick trial of the case and exemplary punishment for the indicted accused.
Executive Director of the TIB Dr Ifekharuzzaman said the delay in verdict even one and a half years after the court framed charges against the accused has created anxiety for the country's people.
"Taking advantage of such procrastination, the main accused has been granted bail on special consideration," he said, adding: "But such type of cases are to be settled within 180 working days, as per the law."
The delay in the case settlement and bail granted to the key accused has aroused a question about justice in the case's verdict.
Quoting newspaper reports, Mr Zaman said the case was shifted to a new court in mid-2018, while the judge was replaced only a few days before the key accused was released on bail.
"Such steps may raise questions about the motive of the agencies concerned regarding justice," he said.
It has also reflected lack of goodwill on the part of the authorities for a fair judgment, he added.
The key accused, Shafat Ahmed, son of Apan Jewellers owner Dildar Ahmed, was indicted in a case filed over the rape of two private university students at a posh hotel in the city's Banani.
One of the two rape victims filed a case with Banani Police Station accusing five people on May 6 last year.

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