‘Amar shonar Bangla’: Palak sings from prison van as cameras roll
Since his arrest, former state minister for posts, telecommunications, and information technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak has remained a constant presence in the media, often seizing moments that quickly go viral. Today was no different.
As he was being taken back to prison from the premises of the International Crimes Tribunal-1, Palak suddenly began singing the national anthem: "Amar shonar Bangla, ami tomaye bhalobashi..."
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. The unexpected rendition began just as journalists rushed toward the narrow upper window of the prison van, phones and tripods raised.
Palak had earlier been produced before the tribunal along with 16 high-profile accused in a case linked to the July uprising. The group includes senior Awami League leaders, former ministers, advisers to the former prime minister, a former Appellate Division judge, and a former secretary.
Among the most prominent names are Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader and Sajeeb Wazed Joy, the son and former adviser to deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina.
Following a prosecution plea, the tribunal scheduled the next hearing for February 9, 2026.
Both Joy and Palak have already been formally charged with crimes against humanity linked to the July uprising. According to the prosecution, the accused attempted to conceal information about killings by shutting down internet services during the unrest.
Earlier in the day, all 16 accused were brought into the tribunal dock, several appearing visibly despondent.
Standing among them, Palak addressed the court, alleging he had been denied basic facilities in jail for the past two weeks.
"Although formal charges have been submitted against me, I was not allowed to speak to my lawyer or my family," he told the tribunal.
Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam responded that Palak's lawyer could meet him either in jail or at the tribunal. A tribunal member added that a formal application would be considered if submitted.
Palak insisted that prison regulations guarantee that accused persons may speak with family once a week, saying he had been denied that right.
Tribunal Chair Justice Md Golam Mortuza Mozumder assured him: "You talk to your lawyer, who will inform us. You will get all legal facilities."
Palak thanked the court for the assurance.
The prosecution also informed the tribunal that it had sought the disposal of charges against Anisul Huq, Salman F Rahman, Mahbubul Alam Hanif, Hasanul Haq Inu, as well as Palak and Joy, from this miscellaneous case -- pointing out that several are already facing formal charges, indictments, or ongoing trials in separate cases.
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