People of the riverine char areas in Harirampur Upazila of Manikganj have expressed deep concern over alleged land grabbing, crop looting, extortion and violence linked to a local group led by BNP leaders.
Victims say the influential network has long dominated the chars, leaving ordinary people at their mercy. Written complaints have recently been submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs and other relevant authorities seeking redress.
Sources said agriculture and livestock rearing are the primary livelihoods in the remote char villages of Azimnagar Union, Harirampur. Once considered peaceful, the area is now reportedly gripped by fear and insecurity.
According to residents, a group led by former Upazila BNP chairman Abdul Hannan Mridha and Azimnagar Union BNP senior vice chairman Shamsuddin has long been involved in forceful land grabs, property damage, crop theft and extortion. Incidents have recently been reported in Enayetpur, Hathighata and Basantapur, among other locations.
Around 14,000 people live in the chars, but increasing violence and insecurity are forcing families to relocate. Locals claim many do not speak out publicly due to fear of the powerful actors. In recent weeks, people have held protests and gatherings, and collected signatures for formal complaints submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs and other government offices.
Both Hannan and Shamsuddin have denied the allegations. Shamsuddin said, “The accusations against us are entirely false and politically motivated. These rumours are being spread to tarnish our image.”
Hannan also denied any involvement, saying, “I and my associates have no connection to land grabbing, extortion or theft. A political faction is attempting to mislead the public for its own gain.”
District BNP spokesperson and executive committee member Advocate Nurtaj Alam Bahar said, “We are taking the matter seriously. Should investigations confirm the allegations, appropriate organisational action will be taken by the party.”
The district police have confirmed receipt of the complaints. Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime) Moharam Ali said, “The allegations of land grabbing, looting and extortion have been forwarded to the relevant police stations. Legal action will follow if the claims are substantiated.”
