Shaon, Mahi named in complaint over July Uprising remarks

A written complaint has been lodged with Shahbagh Police Station against actress Meher Afroz Shaon, film actress Mahiya Mahi, and a woman identified as Shanta Farzana, alleging that they made derogatory remarks and spread misinformation about the July mass uprising on social media.

The complaint was submitted on Friday morning (July 3) by representatives of an organisation named Rashtro Songlap Forum, police said.

Confirming receipt of the complaint on Friday night, Shahbagh Police Station Duty Officer SI Swapon said the allegations have been officially recorded and will be examined through an investigation.

According to the complainants, the accused were involved in publishing or sharing social media content that allegedly demeaned the legacy of the July uprising and the sacrifices of those killed during the movement. The complaint describes the uprising as an inseparable part of Bangladesh's history and alleges the accused circulated misleading and disrespectful narratives about the movement and its significance.

It further alleges that Shanta Farzana posted a video on social media showing a person throwing or striking a shoe at a July memorial monument — an act the complainants say sparked widespread public outrage.

Police said the allegations will be verified, and further legal action will be taken if the investigation finds sufficient evidence to substantiate the claims.

Neither Shaon, Mahi, nor Shanta Farzana had issued a public response to the complaint at the time of filing.