Nahid Islam is a prominent student leader and human rights activist who has been at the forefront of protests in Bangladesh, demanding changes in the quota system and governmental policies.
The demonstrations, initially focused on quota reforms, escalated to calls for the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who subsequently resigned and fled to India.
Nahid Islam, currently studying in the Sociology Department at Dhaka University, Naheed has been an outspoken critic of the ruling Awami League, actions that have led to his controversial labelling as a terrorist.
Nahid’s activism has not only drawn national attention but also significant repercussions. On July 9, 2024, he was reportedly abducted by around 25 plainclothes individuals from a residence in Green Garden, where he was blindfolded, shackled, interrogated about his protest activities, and subjected to violence.
This incident was part of a pattern of harassment, as noted by the international rights group Front Line Defenders, which documented that Naheed was detained twice during the protests. A video capturing his forced entry into a police vehicle further circulated on social media, highlighting the intense scrutiny and pressure he faces.
Alongside Nahid, other young leaders like Abu Bakr and Asif have risen within the movement, signalling a new wave of political activism and leadership amidst Bangladesh’s turbulent political landscape.
