Throughout my thirty-year career in the army, I consistently adhered to a core set of principles: professionalism, integrity, and dedication. In 2009, while serving as Commandant at the Bangladesh Institute of Parliamentary Studies (BIPSOT) in Rajendrapur Cantonment, I began to sense an unsettling atmosphere following the Awami League’s return to power after an election. As an intelligence officer, my training had taught me to perceive subtle indicators, even those not overtly visible. I gradually realized I was under surveillance.

A unit from the local Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI), led by Major (later Colonel) Mozammel, maintained constant observation over me. My movements were tracked at the office, during my prayers at the mosque, while jogging, and even in my private moments. It was as if an unseen entity was scrutinizing every step I took. This was not a figment of my imagination, but the stark reality perceived by a professional intelligence officer. I understood that a narrative was being constructed against me, a fabricated story that bore no relation to my actions but for which I would be held accountable. I braced myself for the inevitable day when I would be dismissed based on baseless accusations.

That day arrived in November 2009 when I was abruptly subjected to compulsory retirement. No explicit reason was provided, nor was there any transparent explanation. Three decades of devoted service seemed to be disregarded in an instant. I sought an explanation from the then Army Chief, General Mubin, but he too could not offer a satisfactory response. His silence was more damning than any accusation, a profound reflection of the injustice I faced. Compounding the pain and confusion was another significant development occurring concurrently: the process for upgrading the Commandant’s position and my subsequent adjustment through promotion had already been initiated. This was not a mere preliminary discussion; the matter was progressing officially, indicating a positive assessment of my professional competence and career trajectory. This stark contrast made the inexplicable retirement all the more bewildering.