Model Meghna Alam Detained, Sentenced to One-Month Jail Under Detention Law

Staff Correspondent

Meghna Alam, the 2020 “Miss Earth Bangladesh” winner and leader of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, was arrested from her residence in Bashundhara Residential Area after police broke down her door. Following her arrest, a Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate ordered her detention for 30 days under the Special Powers Act.

The incident unfolded during a Facebook Live session where Meghna showed police breaking into her home and argued with them. The live stream ended abruptly and was later deleted. Meghna’s arrest and subsequent detention have sparked public concern and criticism, though her organization has yet to issue an official statement.

Court sources confirmed Meghna was presented before the court late Thursday night, and police sought her detention under Section 3(1) of the 1974 Special Powers Act, citing the need to maintain public safety and law and order.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Talebur Rahman declined to comment on the specific charges against Meghna. However, court officials indicated the arrest was linked to allegations of activities deemed harmful to public security.

Reports suggest Meghna had named Saudi Ambassador Isa bin Yusuf multiple times during her live stream, accusing him of pressuring her for marriage despite having a wife and children. Meghna reportedly rejected the proposal, and the ambassador was subsequently recalled to Saudi Arabia. Allegations have emerged that the ambassador, before leaving, orchestrated Meghna’s arrest through local authorities.

The incident has raised concerns about foreign influence over domestic law enforcement actions. Critics have described it as a violation of national sovereignty and an alarming precedent for citizen rights.

Online activist Rudra Saiful commented, “Under Dr. Yunus’s leadership, the government has surrendered sovereignty by unlawfully detaining a citizen under foreign pressure. This is a disgrace for an independent state.”

Police from Vatara Station confirmed their involvement in the operation but refused to disclose further details. Meghna has since been transferred to Kashimpur Central Jail.