Former member of parliament for Natore-3 (Singra) and the State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, Junaid Ahmed Palak was apprehended at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Tuesday (6 August) while attempting to flee the country.
"He trying to flee to Delhi amidst increasing unrest in the country," said a senior official.
On Monday, 5 August, enraged protestors set fire to Palak’s residence shortly after news circulated that Sheikh Hasina had left the country following her resignation as the prime minister.
The unrest follows prolonged dissatisfaction with Palak's handling of the internet shutdown during the quota reform movement.
For 10 consecutive days, mobile internet services were completely cut off, with a further three days of severely restricted speeds ranging from 30 to 50 kbps.
Additionally, broadband internet services were suspended for five continuous days, and social media platforms were inaccessible for a fortnight.
Palak’s varied justifications for these measures have been met with widespread public and governmental criticism.
According to the former state minister, the telecommunications and ICT sector incurred losses amounting to Tk1,800 crore.
However, combined estimates from various individuals and business entities suggest that the actual damage might be significantly higher.
Palak has publicly admitted his failures, apologising to students and the nation for his inability to prevent misinformation and uphold his responsibilities, despite having sworn an oath to diligently execute his duties without succumbing to anger-driven actions.
