Police have arrested Rafat Majumdar Rinku, the creator of the controversial drama Rupantor, which addresses the issue of transgender identity, a topic restricted under Bangladeshi law. He was apprehended late Monday night (September 23) from the Gulshan area, as confirmed by Gulshan Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Touhid Alam.
Rinku, a former cultural secretary of the Dhaka Metropolitan North Chhatra League, is believed to have been detained due to his political affiliations with the Chhatra League, according to close associates.
Following the arrest, director Dipankar Dipan expressed his dismay on Facebook, revealing that Rinku’s detention was unexpected. Dipan said, “Rafat Majumdar Rinku has been detained at Gulshan Police Station. The reason for the arrest remains unclear, and I strongly protest this late-night detention.”
Dipan also urged for Rinku’s immediate release, highlighting his contributions to the creative community and lamenting that news of his arrest overshadowed his latest drama release. Actor Khairul Basar also voiced his support for Rinku, stating that those who know him can vouch for his integrity.
Rinku has produced more than 150 dramas, including Rongin Asha, Putuler Songsar, Itibritto, Norsundori, Kobor, and Rickshaw Girl, among many others.
