Sarjis clarifies ICU absence, helicopter controversy

NCP leader Sarjis Alam addressed concerns over his use of a helicopter to attend Achiya's Janaza in Magura, as well as questions about why he did not visit her in the ICU before her passing.  In a Facebook post on Saturday, he clarified, "When I heard that Achiya was no more, I rushed to the CMH. Upon learning that there were vacant seats on the helicopter allocated for family by the army and RAB, I expressed my wish to attend her funeral in Magura. After the funeral, I returned to Dhaka."

He also explained why he had not visited Achiya in the ICU, writing, "I went to Dhaka Medical College Hospital. When I learned that she was in the ICU, I did not enter because there is a risk of infection from visitors. Instead, I gathered information from outside and left without posting any pictures." Sarjis also said when Achiya was later transferred to CMH in a critical condition, he visited the hospital in the evening with members of his party. But since ICU visits were strictly prohibited, he stayed outside, spoke with the on-duty doctor, and received updates before returning home, UNB reports.

He refrained from posting about this on social media but continued to check on Achiya's condition through student representatives from his party.

Responding to criticisms regarding his public presence during the case, Sarjis said, "Let's talk straight about this 'footage' issue. A brutal crime was committed against my sister Achiya. From my position, I immediately informed the police administration and urged swift action to arrest the culprit."

He added, "The High Court later announced that rape trials must be completed within 180 days. I personally shared my opinion with an important official, suggesting that even 180 days is too long.