Palak's Courtroom Presence Sparks Stir Amid Ongoing Criticism
Former State Minister for ICT, Zunaid Ahmed Palak, continues to face mounting scrutiny over frequent internet shutdowns during prisoner transfers to court. His public demeanor—ranging from silent prayers with raised hands to his viral statement "We must fight to survive"—has kept him in the spotlight across social media.
On Wednesday (February 19), around 11:00 AM, Palak was brought from jail to the courtroom of Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate M A Azharul Islam. While in the dock, Palak saluted Public Prosecutor (PP) Omar Faruk Faruki of the Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Judge Court. Initially focused on his work, Faruki did not respond. However, after Palak’s third attempt, the prosecutor returned the greeting.
Palak, visibly emotional, remarked, "Sir, you responded to my salam on the third try. Please speak to me as a junior." The interaction sparked whispers among those present.
Moments earlier, at 11:05 AM, Palak had approached the front of the dock and greeted Faruki with "Assalamu Alaikum, Faruki Sir." The prosecutor remained neutral, not acknowledging the greeting. Disappointed, Palak moved to the back of the dock and expressed his dismay to nearby lawyers and police officers, saying, "He didn’t return my salam." A junior prosecutor intervened, explaining, "Sir is a bit busy with work."
Persisting, Palak offered two more salutations in quick succession. Though he ignored the second, Faruki finally responded on the third attempt with a brief smile and a raised hand, saying "Wa Alaikum Assalam" without turning his head.
The courtroom atmosphere shifted when the judge entered, initiating the hearing on Palak’s arrest. Following the proceedings, the court officially recorded his arrest.
Earlier, while being brought to court under heavy security—wearing a helmet and bulletproof vest—Palak addressed journalists, stating, "Falsehood can momentarily hide the truth, but truth will ultimately prevail, Insha’Allah."
It is worth noting that Zunaid Ahmed Palak is also a trained lawyer, though he has not actively practiced since entering politics.
