Dhaka, Feb 11 (V7N) – The long-stalled investigation into the murder of journalist couple Sagar Sarwar and Mehrun Runi has seen a significant breakthrough, as the accused in the case have begun revealing sensational information, according to Shishir Monir, the lawyer representing the deceased family.

Speaking to reporters at the Supreme Court premises on Tuesday, Monir stated that the accused, currently in jail, have disclosed details about their communications with higher authorities. “In the past, the investigation process faced legal obstructions, but now, the investigation report is nearing completion and will be submitted to the High Court soon,” he said.

Following the formation of the interim government, a High Court bench established a high-level task force to reinvigorate the investigation. The task force, led by the Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI) chief, has been working since November to uncover the truth behind the murders. The investigation report is scheduled for submission to the court by April 4.

Monir emphasized that the task force has engaged with plaintiffs, lawyers, and other stakeholders in the case. “The investigation has made significant progress. Members of the committee informed us that the previous government's higher authorities had obstructed the process, preventing the investigation from advancing,” Monir alleged.

In a dramatic development, Meherun Runi’s brother, Nowsher Roman, accused the Sheikh Hasina government of involvement in the murder. “There is no doubt in my mind about their complicity,” Roman told reporters.

However, the couple's son, Megh, expressed cautious optimism. “This time I see a ray of hope. I believe something good will happen,” Megh said, signaling renewed faith in the judicial process after more than a decade of stagnation.

The brutal murder of Sagar Sarwar, news editor at Maasranga Television, and his wife Mehrun Runi, senior reporter at ATN Bangla, occurred in their West Rajabazar home in Dhaka in the early hours of February 11, 2012. Despite widespread public outrage and numerous promises from previous governments, the case remained unresolved for 13 years.

The case saw multiple delays, with over 95 extensions granted for submission of investigation reports. The previous administration's inaction fueled suspicions of political interference, further frustrating the couple's family and colleagues in the journalistic community.

After the fall of the Awami League government, the interim administration has taken decisive steps to revive the case, reflecting its commitment to ensuring justice for the slain journalists. The revelations from the accused and the renewed efforts of the task force have injected new momentum into the case, offering a glimmer of hope that those responsible will finally be held accountable.

As the April 4 deadline approaches, all eyes remain on the High Court's next steps, with journalists, activists, and the family of Sagar and Runi awaiting long-overdue justice.

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