BNP influence allegedly used for land grabbing in Gazipur

Residents and affected families in Gazipur’s Kaliganj have accused a group of using political influence linked to ruling BNP to grab land, demand extortion money, carry out attacks, deal in drugs and file false cases.

They also alleged that agricultural land is being illegally filled with sand. The victims and local residents held a human chain in front of the National Press Club in Dhaka on Saturday, demanding a fair investigation and security.

Speakers included Iqbal Ahmed, brother of expatriate Alomgir Kabir; Md Mujahidul Islam, brother of Bayezid Hasan Shibli; and Md Zahidul Islam, nephew of Alomgir Kabir.

They  alleged that Khalekuzzaman Bablu, member secretary of Kaliganj Upazila BNP, and his two brothers, Anisur Rahman Ripon and Sohel, have been using their political influence in the area. They also alleged that Ziaurul, Mintu Molla, Sajal Sheikh, Mahfuz Ahmed and Latif Molla are working with them.

They said around four bighas of land owned by Dubai expatriate Alomgir Kabir were occupied while he was abroad.

They said tin-shed houses were built on the land and soil was removed using excavators and sold.

The group controls the lease of the Chupair cattle market, the supply of construction materials and financial transactions in the area. They further accused the group of demanding money from mills and factories.

Protesters also alleged drug trading and false cases against people who oppose it. They said 19-year-old Bayezid Hasan Shibli was allegedly abducted and beaten on August 13 before being handed over to police with Yaba placed in his pocket.