NEW YORK — The Supreme Court of the State of New York, Queens County, has issued a temporary restraining order barring Bangladesh Society Inc. from proceeding with its scheduled October 25 election, according to a court order filed on October 23. The order, issued in a case brought by Osman A. Chowdhury, prohibits the organization and the named respondents from conducting the election, accepting votes, opening polling stations, counting ballots or certifying election results pending further order of the court.
The case, filed under Index No. 732174/2026, names Bangladesh Society Inc. and several of its officials as respondents. They include President S. M. A. Rahman, also known as “Salim”; General Secretary Mohammad Ali; Treasurer Mafijul Islam Bhuiyan; and Chief Election Commissioner Abu Nasher. The court also temporarily barred the respondents from enforcing an August 28, 2026, executive committee decision rejecting Chowdhury’s application for general membership.
According to the court papers, Chowdhury is seeking to overturn the executive committee’s decision denying his membership application. He has also asked the court to declare Article IX, Section 6, of Bangladesh Society Inc.’s constitution and bylaws invalid and unenforceable under New York law and public policy.
Among the relief sought, Chowdhury is asking the court to direct the society to admit or reinstate him as a member in good standing and recognize his eligibility to run for president. These requests form part of the underlying case and should not be confused with the temporary relief already granted.
The temporary restraining order also prohibits the destruction of relevant organizational and election records. These include original voter registries, membership applications, dues-payment records, voter lists and election ballots. The respondents have been directed to preserve those materials until further order of the court.
The court documents list November 5, 2026, as the date for the next hearing. The order is temporary and does not constitute a final ruling on Chowdhury’s membership claim or his request to invalidate the disputed bylaw provision.
