Assault on rickshaw-puller: Social services officer’s suspension withdrawn

Jahid Hasan Russel, a social services officer who was suspended for physically assaulting a rickshaw driver, has been reinstated by the Ministry of Social Services. His suspension has been withdrawn, and the time spent under suspension will be counted as part of his official service.

According to a notification signed by Deputy Secretary Mohammad Abdul Hamid Mia, Jahid Hasan has been posted as the Social Service Officer of Dupchanchia Upazila in Bogura. He has been asked to join the post by July 30. Previously, Jahid Hasan served as the Social Service Officer of Paba Upazila in Rajshahi.

The incident took place on February 2 in front of the Judges’ Quarters in Rajshahi. A video showing Jahid Hasan beating a rickshaw driver first with shoes and then with a stick went viral on Facebook. The dispute reportedly arose over the fare, with the rickshaw driver referring to Jahid Hasan using a derogatory term, which triggered the attack.

Following public outrage, the Ministry of Social Welfare suspended Jahid Hasan on February 3. Shahedul Islam, Additional Director (Institution) of the Department of Social Services, was appointed as the investigating officer. After completing the investigation, a report was submitted to the ministry.

On July 22, the ministry withdrew the suspension order, citing Jahid Hasan’s written apology and assurance that such behavior will not recur. Ministry Secretary Dr. Md. Mohiuddin stated that Jahid Hasan had expressed regret and sought forgiveness.

In his written statement, Jahid Hasan said the incident had changed his life and that he had reformed himself since then.