Meherpur Jamaat alleges irregularities in fertiliser dealer appointment 

MEHERPUR, Oct 31: Meherpur District unit Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has alleged irregularities in fertiliser dealer appointments, political favouritism in government programmes, extortion, drug trafficking and criminal activities, demanding impartial investigations and legal action against those responsible.

At a news conference on Friday afternoon at the party’s district office, Jamaat leaders also raised concerns about hospital brokers, juvenile gangs and alleged political interference in government administration.

District Secretary Iqbal Hussain read out a written statement alleging that political connections influenced the appointment of 22 fertiliser dealers in Meherpur Sadar, Mujibnagar and Gangni upazilas. He claimed that several appointees were BNP leaders, activists or their relatives, while qualified and experienced fertiliser traders were overlooked.

The party also alleged political favouritism in selecting data collectors for the family card programme and discrimination in preparing lists of recipients of allowances for Imams and Muezzins.

Regarding health services, Jamaat leaders alleged that brokers at the 250-bed Meherpur General Hospital were harassing patients, collecting illegal payments and directing them to private clinics. They called for an investigation and stronger monitoring of hospital operations.

The statement also expressed concern over alleged violence, intimidation, extortion and robbery involving juvenile gangs, as well as drug trafficking and illegal gambling.

Jamaat leaders further accused politically affiliated individuals of extorting money from businesses. They cited an October 27 incident in which businessman Tariqul Islam was allegedly beaten near the Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation office in Meherpur after refusing to pay extortion money. The statement accused Chhatra Dal leader Sunny and Jubo Dal leader Mithun, the brother of the Sadar Upazila BNP general secretary, of involvement. Islam was admitted to Meherpur General Hospital, the statement said.

Meherpur-1 MP Tajuddin Khan and Meherpur-2 MP Nazmul Huda attended the press conference. Khan said opposition lawmakers were being deprived of various opportunities and urged the government to ensure adequate supplies of essential commodities, including fertiliser, oil and gas. Several district and upazila-level Jamaat leaders and activists also attended the event.