Kushtia cop suspended over Facebook post ‘defaming’ July movement

A traffic police constable in Kushtia has been suspended for allegedly defaming the July Movement in a Facebook post.

Police Farjul Islam Rony was suspended on Saturday due to a controversial Facebook post, said Kushtia Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mosharraf Hossain.

Earlier on Tuesday afternoon, Farjul, who was posted in Kushtia Traffic Division, made a derogatory post from his personal Facebook account regarding the July Revolution, triggering anger among students and locals.

They also held processions and blocked the Kushtia-Meherpur road in front of the Superintendent of Police’s office, demanding the constable’s immediate arrest and exemplary punishment.

Farjul was transferred to the police lines that same night, and an inquiry committee was formed to investigate the incident. His leave was also revoked.

Police said he went into hiding after making the post while on leave and has not returned to duty since.

“A three-member probe committee has been formed. Further action will be taken based on the investigation,” said the OC.

Kushtia Traffic Police Inspector Sheikh Shahadat Ali said Farjul hails from Dahkula village of Shailkupa upazila in Jhenaidah district.

He has been serving in Kushtia’s traffic division since July 13, 2023.