Dilip Kumar Agarwala, a leading figure in the country’s jewelry industry and a prominent supporter of the anti-discrimination student movement, has been in jail for nearly 10 months following his arrest on criminal charges that many claim are false and conspiratorial.

Despite his notable contributions to the economy and society, Dilip was arrested from his Gulshan office on the night of September 3 last year. Since then, he has been held in custody, facing multiple criminal cases, including serious charges like murder. However, sources claim that these cases were filed out of business rivalry and political vengeance, and his name was included without

the knowledge or consent of the original complainants.

Dilip Kumar Agarwala has long served as the General Secretary of the Bangladesh Jewelers Association and has played a vital role in shaping the country’s gold business policies. Through the Tara Foundation, named after his mother, he has actively contributed to education, healthcare, and socio-economic development in Chuadanga, Kushtia, and Meherpur. His philanthropic initiatives include providing scholarships, building science labs, constructing homes for the needy, offering mid-day meals, and operating free ambulance services.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Dilip took proactive measures by distributing masks, PPE, sanitizers, and providing financial assistance in Dhaka and surrounding districts. Employees of Diamond World, the company he leads, confirm that he supported the student movement and even arranged food and supplies for the protestors. Yet, ironically, he now faces charges related to that very movement.

According to sources close to him, Dilip suffers from chronic health conditions, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and kidney problems. Although he was once transferred to a specialized hospital following a court directive, he was sent back to prison without completing his treatment. His health is reportedly
deteriorating, raising serious concerns among his family, employees, and the broader business community.

A five-time recipient of the Commercially Important Person (CIP) title and nine-time best taxpayer from the Khulna division, Dilip’s contributions to the national economy are widely acknowledged. His absence is severely affecting the operations of his businesses, putting thousands of jobs at risk.

Family members, employees, and well-wishers are urging the government and judicial authorities to review his case urgently. They demand his immediate release on bail, citing his critical health condition and the need to rescue the businesses and livelihoods tied to his leadership