TDS Desk:

Biman Bangladesh Airlines has urgently removed two cabin crew members from duty on the special flight scheduled to bring BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman back to Dhaka from London.

The airline withdrew junior purser Md Sawgatul Alam Sawgat and flight steward Jinia Islam from the duty roster, citing political affiliation concerns and potential security risks. Several Biman officials confirmed the decision.

Tarique Rahman is scheduled to return to Dhaka on Thursday, 25 December, after nearly 18 years abroad.

Airline sources said the decision to remove the two crew members came after photographs circulated widely on social media showing their close associations with senior leaders of the Awami League, which is currently banned from political activities.

According to Biman officials, the matter drew the attention of the authorities due to the sensitivity of the flight and the heightened security considerations surrounding Tarique Rahman’s return.

Following an internal review, the airline decided to replace the two crew members in the interest of operational safety.

Biman has not issued a formal statement, but officials said the move was taken purely on security grounds linked to the high-profile nature of the flight.