Specialist Doctor Dr. Sumit Attacked by Shibir Militants: Arrested While Severely Injured

Staff Correspondent | April 20, 2025

Specialist physician Dr. Sumit Saha was the victim of a brutal attack by members of the militant group Islami Chhatra Shibir. Colleagues report that he was arrested despite being critically injured, sparking widespread outrage on social media.

The incident occurred on Thursday, April 18, at around 9:30 p.m. in front of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU). A group of Shibir militants launched a surprise attack on Dr. Sumit.

Eyewitnesses identified the assailants as former and current students of Comilla Central Medical College, including Dr. Zubair, Dr. Mahedul, and Dr. Yusuf Abdullah, who reportedly led the attack.

The mob of 20–22 individuals used bricks and sticks to repeatedly strike Dr. Sumit, causing severe head and facial injuries. Witnesses reported that his head bled profusely, and he sustained injuries to his nose. Following the attack, he received six stitches on his head during initial treatment.

Dr. Sumit graduated from Comilla Central Medical College in 2018 and completed his postgraduate studies at the National Institute of Diseases of the Chest and Hospital in July 2024. Colleagues describe him as a non-political, responsible individual, known to be a supporter of the Bangladesh Chhatra League during his student days.

After the attack, police initially refused to arrest Dr. Sumit due to his severe injuries. However, after receiving basic medical treatment, he was arrested with his wounds still bandaged.

Authorities claim that Dr. Sumit was arrested as an unnamed suspect in four cases related to arson and attempted murder at BSMMU on August 4 of last year.

Colleagues argue that it would have been impossible for Dr. Sumit to participate in any political activities during last year’s protests as he was occupied with his postgraduate examinations at the time.

Allegations of Targeted Attack

Many within the medical community believe that Dr. Sumit was targeted because of his identity as a minority Hindu and his alignment with pro-Awami League views. Images and reports circulating on social media show him gravely injured following the attack. Yet, the perpetrators are reportedly spreading false accusations that Dr. Sumit attacked them instead.

Senior physicians have expressed grave concerns about the future conduct of the Shibir militants involved, who are currently studying medicine. They warn that if such individuals enter the medical profession, they could intentionally harm patients due to political vendettas.

The incident follows a pattern of politically motivated attacks on pro-Awami League doctors in Comilla since August 5 of last year. However, the medical community has largely remained silent in the face of these assaults.

Physicians and citizens alike are demanding a thorough investigation and swift justice for the perpetrators of this heinous attack on Dr. Sumit.