Allegations of drug dealers' patronage against BNP leader in Chatmohar; mass signature in protest

Men and women of various ages participated in the program organized under the slogan 'Say no to drugs, build a healthy society'. They signed a mass signature against drug dealers and their accomplices.

During the brief rally, speeches were given by Shafiqul Islam Alal, president of Gunaigacha Union Swechchhasebak Dal, Ward No. 1 member Mojibur Rahman, BNP activists Helal Uddin, Shukur Ali, Morsheda Khatun, and Jamela Khatun, among others.

The speakers alleged that although anti-drug activities have been intensified in the area under the direction of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, some drug dealers are trying to take political shelter. They claimed that despite allegations of drug dealing against a person named Ashraful, complaints have been filed against local residents in various offices in his favor. They also accused BNP leader VP Selim Reza of cooperating in this regard.

According to them, written complaints were recently filed with the Deputy Commissioner, UNO, Assistant Commissioner (Land), and the Officer-in-Charge of the police station against several BNP leaders and local residents who took an anti-drug stance. However, they claimed that the accused Ashraful was arrested by police on July 3.

The locals demanded an end to harassment by the administration and called for a party investigation and necessary action against BNP leader Selim Reza.

Attempts were made to contact VP Selim Reza multiple times on his mobile phone on Sunday (July 5) afternoon to get his comments, but he did not answer the phone. No response was received to a text message sent identifying as a journalist.

According to local sources, on June 7, locals verbally warned Ashraful Islam of Charpara village to stop drug dealing. The next day, he filed a complaint against several people alleging robbery of Tk 2 lakh. The complaint created tension in the area, and subsequently, several protest marches were held.

Meanwhile, the situation became more heated following allegations that two local BNP and Swechchhasebak Dal leaders were assaulted on June 17. Later, a clash occurred between the two sides on June 20 over obstruction of a protest march, leaving several people injured.

However, as VP Selim Reza's comments on the allegations could not be obtained, his reaction could not be known. The results of the investigation by the relevant administration are awaited to verify the truth of the allegations.