Who the man was, that he was imprisoned, or what his crimes were, should not matter in this case. It signals a deeper cultural shift -- one where human distress is assessed purely through procedural checkboxes rather than with understanding. Empathy cannot be assumed -- it must be consciously cultivated, especially in institutions entrusted with enforcing rules, and in citizens who engage with those systems. There is no denying that rules are necessary, but responses to human suffering must balance legality with compassion. Restoring empathy in public life is not sentimental -- it is an imperative move that must shape how policies are implemented, how services are delivered, and how we, as a society, treat one another.

Source: Dhaka Tribune January 27, 2026 07:29 UTC