Case Law On Arson Attacks On Buses During Strikes
1. Comilla Bus Arson Case – February 3, 2015
Facts:
During a nationwide transport blockade called by political opposition groups, a moving bus in Jagmohanpur, Chauddagram Upazila, Comilla was set on fire using petrol bombs. Eight passengers were killed, and several others injured.
Charges:
Murder under the Penal Code.
Arson under sections dealing with explosives and public endangerment.
Conspiracy to commit public violence.
Court Proceedings:
A case was filed against prominent political figures and local activists.
Initially, the High Court stayed trial proceedings, citing procedural concerns.
Later, the Appellate Division lifted the stay and allowed the trial to resume.
Outcome:
Some accused were granted bail; others remained in custody.
The case continues as a reference point for political strike-related bus arson and leadership accountability.
2. Mithapukur, Rangpur Bus Arson – January 14, 2014
Facts:
A passenger bus traveling to Dhaka was attacked with petrol bombs during a political blockade ahead of elections. Six people died and about 25 were injured.
Charges:
Arson and murder.
Violation of the Anti-Terrorism Act due to large-scale public terror.
Cheating and criminal conspiracy.
Court Proceedings:
Police filed a case against 87 local political activists, later expanded to 132 accused.
The trial began in the First Additional District Sessions Judge Court of Rangpur.
High Court later stayed the trial, delaying proceedings.
Outcome:
Trial has remained suspended for years, highlighting difficulties in prosecuting politically sensitive arson cases.
3. Dhaka City Bus Arson – October 2020
Facts:
During by-elections in Dhaka, nine buses were set on fire at multiple locations. Although no fatalities were reported, the attacks caused substantial public fear and disruption.
Charges:
Attempted murder and arson.
Destruction of public property.
Sabotage under the Special Powers Act.
Court Proceedings:
Multiple cases filed across several police stations in Dhaka.
Police arrested 28 suspects for remand and investigation, analyzing CCTV footage and communications.
Outcome:
Investigations are ongoing, with court proceedings continuing for multiple accused.
Demonstrates urban-scale bus arson linked to political mobilization.
4. Khulna Rupsha Upazila Bus Arson – November 5, 2023
Facts:
During a nationwide 48-hour blockade, a parked bus in Rupsha Upazila, Khulna was set on fire. No fatalities were reported, but significant property damage occurred.
Charges:
Arson and criminal conspiracy.
Attempted destruction of property during political strike.
Court Proceedings:
Case filed against 85 political activists, including district and local leaders.
Eight arrests have been made; investigations are ongoing.
Outcome:
Trial is at the early stage.
Highlights continued use of arson as a tactic during political hartals.
5. Comilla Fatal Bus Fire Remand Case – 2024
Facts:
This case revisits the February 2015 Comilla bus arson, where eight people were killed. High-profile individuals, including former officials, were implicated in facilitating or failing to prevent the attack.
Charges:
Murder and arson.
Criminal negligence by officials.
Conspiracy to commit public endangerment.
Court Proceedings:
More than 190 accused named, including senior officials.
Several remand orders issued in 2024 to investigate complicity.
Outcome:
Investigation is ongoing; trial is yet to begin.
Case underscores the challenge of linking institutional accountability to politically motivated violence.
6. Multiple Arson Cases Against Khaleda Zia – 2015
Facts:
Several arson cases filed in Dhaka relating to attacks on buses and vehicles during blockades in January–March 2015.
Charges:
Arson and destruction of public and private property.
Use of explosives under Special Powers Act.
Court Proceedings:
High Court stayed trials in 2017.
Appellate Division intervened to review procedural issues.
Outcome:
Trials remain stayed in some instances, reflecting procedural complexity when high-profile leaders are involved.
Analysis of These Cases
Common Features:
Political strikes (hartals/blockades) are the primary context.
Use of petrol bombs and arson to create terror and disruption.
Large numbers of accused, ranging from street-level activists to political leaders.
Court proceedings often delayed due to stay orders, procedural complexities, and political sensitivities.
Legal Significance:
Shows application of Penal Code sections for murder, arson, and conspiracy.
Demonstrates use of Special Powers Act and Anti-Terrorism Act in politically sensitive cases.
Highlights ongoing debate on leadership responsibility vs. direct perpetrators.
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