Govt to take legal action over alleged harassment of Yunus at New York airport

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Prime Minister’s Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Dr Zahed Ur Rahman has said that the government will take legal action over the alleged harassment of former interim government chief adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport.

While responding to reporters’ questions at a press conference, Dr Zahed said the government would pursue legal action over the incident.

He also said Dhaka wanted former prime minister Sheikh Hasina to be returned to Bangladesh to face justice, stressing that the objective was justice rather than revenge.

“For reconciliation, those who have committed serious criminal offences must face trial,” he said, adding that there had been no sign of remorse from the political group he accused of committing crimes against humanity. Instead, he alleged, the group continued to engage in activities that could create further instability.

A video circulating on social media appears to show several people approaching Yunus, who was seated in a wheelchair inside the airport, and shouting slogans at him.

The protesters were heard shouting phrases including “You are a terrorist” and “Why have you come here?” while directing accusations at the former chief adviser.

They also accused Yunus of undermining democracy in Bangladesh and chanted slogans concerning the role of the country’s police force.

Yunus was subsequently seen moving forward with assistance from a member of his entourage.

The incident has drawn attention to the treatment of the Nobel laureate during his visit to the United States. The government’s announcement of possible legal action signals that the matter could have further diplomatic or legal implications.

Further details regarding the proposed legal proceedings and the identification of those involved were not immediately available.