Body of the missing Awami League leader found in Meghalaya near the Bangladesh border

A terrible find along the India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya revealed the decomposed remains of Ishaq Ali Khan Panna, a senior Awami League leader and politician of Bangladesh. This incident occurred on Wednesday evening in the East Jaintia Hills district, raising fears about the safety and whereabouts of other regional political personalities in light of Bangladesh’s current political instability.

Panna, 60, had reportedly been in hiding since the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on August 5, who also left the country amid escalating political pressures. His body was found 1.5 kilometres from the border in a betel nut plantation in the Dona Bhoi area, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Umkiang police station. Identification was possible due to a passport found near his body, which led to his immediate recognition.

Following the finding of Panna’s remains, an autopsy was performed at Khliehriat Civil Hospital to determine the circumstances of his death. This action was motivated by unconfirmed accusations that he sought asylum in India during a crackdown on political dissent in Bangladesh.

Controversy Surrounding the Death of Awami League Leader on the India-Bangladesh Border

Panna was previously the secretary of the Bangladesh Chhatra League and a member of the Awami League leadership in Bangladesh’s Pirojpur district. His political ties and activity established him as a prominent figure in his neighbourhood.

According to reports Panna and some associates attempted to cross into the Indian state of Meghalaya through the Tamabil area of Sylhet district on August 24. They reached a hill at 6 am where Panna reportedly experienced severe breathing difficulties collapsed and subsequently passed away. This contradicts earlier speculations suggesting that he was pursued by the Border Security Force (BSF) which allegedly led to his death. The BSF has since denied such claims asserting that no recent illegal entries or infiltrations were detected in the region they oversee.

In the aftermath of this incident, Zafar Ali Khan brother of Panna has officially requested the return of his body. He has reached out to the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs for assistance in transferring Panna’s remains from India back to Bangladesh. This event has brought to light the journeys and risks associated with political instability that force individuals to flee their home countries.

Following the discovery of Panna’s remains, an autopsy was performed at Khliehriat Civil Hospital to determine the circumstances surrounding his death. This action was motivated by unconfirmed accusations that he sought asylum in India during a crackdown on political dissenters in Bangladesh.

Panna previously served as secretary of the Bangladesh Chhatra League and was a member of the Awami League’s leadership in Bangladesh’s Pirojpur district. His political ties and activity helped him become a well-known figure in his neighbourhood.

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