The death of Proloy Chaki, a Hindu musician and Awami League leader, in police custody in Rajshahi district, Bangladesh, has ignited a wave of political backlash and allegations of torture and medical negligence. Chaki, who was also the Cultural Secretary of the Pabna District Awami League, was arrested in December in connection with a case linked to an alleged attack on the anti-discrimination student movement. His family and supporters claim the charges were fabricated and that his arrest was politically motivated.

Chaki's health reportedly deteriorated suddenly on Sunday evening while in detention. Relatives allege that authorities failed to act promptly, delaying his hospitalization despite being aware of his pre-existing conditions, including diabetes and heart disease. According to Pabna Jail Superintendent Md Omar Faruk, Chaki suffered a cardiac arrest and was initially taken to Pabna General Hospital before being transferred to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, where he died around 9:15 pm local time on January 11.

Sony Chaki, Proloy Chaki's son, stated that his father's condition worsened in jail, and the family was not officially informed. He further claimed that his father did not receive proper treatment, which led to his death and that his father required regular monitoring even before his arrest. The family also alleges that Chaki may have been subjected to mistreatment while in custody.

The Awami League, now banned, and its supporters have accused the authorities of administrative high-handedness, linking the incident to broader pressures on political opponents under the Yunus administration. They suggest the case reflects wider pressure on political opponents. Chaki's death has deepened political tensions in Bangladesh.

Beyond his political role, Chaki was a well-known cultural activist since the 1990s. He was a popular singer and used music and cultural programs to mobilize people and promote secular and progressive values. His death has been described as a symbol of wider fears about political suppression, minority rights, and shrinking space for cultural expression.

Chaki's death comes amid a wave of political unrest in Bangladesh, during which mobs have attacked cultural centers, media organizations, and even Indian diplomatic missions. Reports indicate targeted attacks on religious and ethnic minorities and political opponents.

Calls for an independent inquiry into Chaki's death are growing louder. His passing has not only left a void in the country's cultural landscape but has also intensified questions about accountability, rule of law, and the treatment of political detainees. His death has triggered fresh debate over political repression and minority safety in Bangladesh.