Veteran Politician Ramesh Chandra Sen Dies in Custody Ahead of Elections

Ramesh Chandra Sen, a senior leader of the Bangladesh Awami League and former Minister of Water Resources, died on Saturday morning while in custody at Dinajpur District Jail. His death has raised significant concerns regarding the treatment of detained politicians, particularly as the nation approaches its general election scheduled for February 12, 2026.

Sen, aged 83, reportedly fell ill early on Saturday and was taken to Dinajpur Medical College Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at approximately 09:29 am local time. According to jail authorities, Farhad Sarkar, the Superintendent of the jail, stated that Sen’s body would be released to his family following the completion of all legal formalities.

Political Background and Arrest

Sen had been in custody since August 16, 2024, after his arrest by police in Thakurgaon. He faced multiple charges, including a serious murder accusation linked to political unrest following a mass uprising against the government of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This unrest has created a charged political atmosphere in Bangladesh, exacerbated by the ongoing exclusion of the Awami League from the electoral process.

Born on April 30, 1940, in Ruhia Union of Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila, Sen represented the Thakurgaon-1 constituency in the Jatiya Sangsad multiple times. As a presidium member of the Awami League, he was elected to parliament in the 2024 general election, shortly before the party was barred from participating in politics under the current interim administration.

Implications of Sen’s Death

The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Mohammad Yunus, has faced criticism both domestically and internationally regarding human rights practices. Opposition parties point to high-profile deaths in custody, particularly those of former Awami League officials, as indicative of systemic issues within the country’s detention facilities. They argue that these incidents highlight serious concerns regarding medical care standards for detainees.

Sen’s passing adds to the urgency of discussions surrounding justice, governance, and the rule of law in Bangladesh. His legacy as a prominent political figure ensures that his death will be a significant topic in the ongoing dialogue about the country’s political future. As rival parties prepare for the upcoming elections, the implications of this event are likely to resonate deeply within the political landscape.

With his extensive experience and influence, Sen’s death may serve as a catalyst for renewed scrutiny of the treatment of political prisoners in Bangladesh, as well as the broader implications for the country’s democracy.