In a dramatic courtroom scene, former Minister Shahjahan Khan broke down in tears while pleading his innocence, only to walk into jail with a smile later. The incident unfolded on Monday (March 17) at the court of Metropolitan Magistrate M A Azharul Islam in Dhaka, sparking widespread discussion.

Shahjahan Khan, a former Awami League minister and eight-time Member of Parliament, was brought to the dock at 9:50 AM. During the hearing, his lawyer, Mizanur Rahman Badsha, argued that the 76-year-old politician had already been remanded twice and had fallen ill both times, requiring hospitalization. The lawyer urged the court to deny further remand, citing his client’s age and health concerns, especially during Ramadan.

However, Shahjahan Khan himself took the floor at 10:27 AM, seeking permission to speak. Tearfully, he claimed the case against him was a conspiracy and expressed frustration over being separated from his elder son, Asibur Rahman Khan, for five months. “I am innocent. Why was this case filed? Not just me, but my son has also been made an accused,” he said, wiping his eyes with a tissue.

Despite his emotional plea, the court granted a four-day remand in connection with the Rafiqul Islam murder case filed with Badda Police Station. By 10:40 AM, Shahjahan Khan was escorted out of the court in a bulletproof jacket, helmet, and handcuffs.

As he was being taken to jail, the former minister remarked, “The police said I shouldn’t speak. But this is a democratic country. I’ve spent my life speaking out, and I will continue to do so.” Moments later, he was seen smiling and walking confidently into custody.

The case has drawn significant attention, with Shahjahan Khan’s dramatic shift from tears to smiles adding a layer of intrigue. His supporters argue that the charges are politically motivated, while critics point to the seriousness of the allegations. The former minister’s emotional appeal and subsequent composure have only deepened the public’s curiosity about the unfolding legal drama.