20 BNP Leaders Expelled in a Day Over Violence, Extortion, and Indiscipline

In a major crackdown on organisational misconduct, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has expelled 20 leaders in a single day for alleged involvement in extortion, violence, lobbying for personal gain, and breaching party discipline. On Tuesday (29 July), the party also dissolved its Chattogram North District Committee, citing internal conflicts and disorder.

This move follows rising concerns over allegations of extortion and abuse of influence by party members across various districts, particularly since 5 August 2024. In response, the BNP high command has implemented a zero-tolerance policy, issuing show-cause notices, suspensions, and expulsions to maintain order ahead of the 13th National Parliamentary Election.

Crackdown Strategy and Tarique Rahman’s Direct Oversight

The campaign is being personally monitored by Tarique Rahman, the BNP’s acting chairman, who is said to be taking a hardline stance against any activities that tarnish the party’s image. Senior leaders and other sources close to the leadership confirm that Rahman is directly receiving reports through multiple channels and acting promptly.

“There will be no mercy for extortionists and unruly members,” Tarique has reportedly stated.
“The BNP cannot become a refuge for the corrupt. If needed, culprits will be handed over to law enforcement.”

BNP insiders have said any unit involved in disorderly conduct may be dissolved as a strategic move to deter criminality within the party ranks.

Recent Organisational Measures (Post 5 August 2024)

Additionally, BNP’s affiliates — Chhatra Dal, Jubo Dal, and Swechchhasebak Dal — have taken parallel actions against reckless members.

Organisational Turmoil and Deadly Clashes

According to Human Rights Support Society (HRSS), between 7 August last year and 30 June this year, 478 internal clashes occurred within BNP due to turf wars, leadership disputes, and conflicts between central and affiliate units — resulting in over 80 deaths and thousands of injuries.
Meanwhile, ASK (Ain o Salish Kendra) reports that 68 activists were killed in the past 10 months alone.

Specific Disciplinary Actions Taken on 29 July

Following a violent clash in Raozan, Chattogram, the Chattogram North District BNP Committee, led by Golam Akbar Khondkar, was dissolved.
Additionally, BNP Vice Chairman Gias Qader Chowdhury lost both his vice-chairman role and primary membership.

Other expulsions included:

Violence in Thakurgaon

• On 12 July, a clash during the council of Baliadangi Upazila BNP led to the expulsion of:
  • Md. Syed Alam (Former Acting President)
  • Dr. T. M. Mahbubur Rahman (Former General Secretary Candidate)

Allegations of Extortion and Criminal Activity

The following individuals were expelled for involvement in extortion, intimidation, and land grabbing:

Action Against Pro-BNP Medical Association

Eight members of Doctors’ Association of Bangladesh (DAB) were expelled for breaching organisational discipline during internal membership disputes ahead of the upcoming DAB council. These individuals have been stripped of all party and affiliate roles:

BNP has warned that any unit incorporating these expelled doctors will face disciplinary action.

Official Statement from BNP

Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Senior Joint Secretary General of BNP, affirmed:

“Tarique Rahman has not shielded a single offender. Over 4,000 leaders and activists have faced disciplinary action.
BNP is a large democratic family — some opportunists may exploit its name, but we’re acting immediately when such activities come to light.”

He urged leaders and activists not to react to provocation, but instead maintain restraint and discipline.

Underlying Causes and Internal Insights

BNP insiders note that being out of power for nearly 15 years, many activists suffered state repression, forced displacement, and financial hardship. The changed political climate post-August 2024 enabled some rogue members to exploit the party’s banner for personal gain — particularly at grassroots levels, though a few central figures are also under scrutiny.

According to BNP sources, strict action is part of a pre-election strategy to protect the party’s reputation. No matter how senior or sacrificial a member may be, permanent expulsion awaits anyone involved in criminal or disruptive activities.

Over 1,600 expelled activists have appealed for reinstatement, but leadership sources confirm these requests are unlikely to be granted immediately. However, once the election schedule is announced, the matter may be reviewed with fresh consideration.