News Flash
DHAKA, May 4, 2025 (BSS) - Eminent criminal law expert and Supreme Court's senior lawyer Barrister Abdur Razzaq passed away today at a hospital in the capital this afternoon while undergoing medical treatment.
He was 74.
He breathed his last at 4:10 pm at Ibn Sina Hospital in Dhanmondi, where he was admitted with serious illness, said Supreme Court lawyer Shishir Monir.
His first Namaz-e-Janaza was held after Isha prayers at Taqwa Mosque in Dhanmondi while the second Janaza will be held tomorrow at 11:00 am on the Supreme Court premises.
Barrister Razzaq is survived by wife, two sons and a daughter.
Chief Justice Syed Refaat Ahmed expressed deep sorrow over his death and extended condolences to the bereaved family.
A prominent figure in the country's legal arena, Razzaq returned to Bangladesh on December 26, 2024, after 11 years in the United Kingdom.
Upon his return, he resumed his legal practice at the Supreme Court and was formally welcomed by his junior colleagues at a reception at the Supreme Court Bar Association on January 6.
Razzaq had left the country on December 18, 2013, amid political tensions after representing top Jamaat-e-Islami leaders accused of crimes against humanity in the International Crimes Tribunal.
As a result of his legal advocacy during the Awami League-led government, he reportedly faced pressure that compelled him to relocate abroad.
Speaking at the airport upon his return last year, he said, "I am a courtroom barrister. I will continue to contribute to the legal profession. Establishing the rule of law is vital. If we can ensure that, politics will succeed and the economy will prosper".
Born on December 31, 1949, in Shekhlal village of Mathiura Union, Beanibazar upazila in Sylhet, Barrister Razzaq completed his BA (Honours) and MA before obtaining a Bar-at-Law degree from Lincoln's Inn in the UK in 1980. He practiced in London until 1985 and joined the Bangladesh Bar in 1986.
He was enrolled in the High Court Division in 1988 and the Appellate Division in 1994. In 1990, he founded a legal firm called "The Law Council," and in 2002, he became a senior advocate of the Appellate Division.
Throughout his career, Barrister Razzaq earned widespread respect both at home and abroad for his expertise and integrity. Known for his humility and gentle demeanor, he was admired by colleagues and clients alike.
His two sons -- Barrister Ehsan Abdullah Siddiqui and Barrister Imran Abdullah Siddiqui -- are also practicing lawyers at the Supreme Court.
Razzaq had been battling cancer for some time and was last admitted to hospital on April 21. His passing has cast a deep shadow of grief across the nation's legal community.
