Attack on Freedom Fighter’s Family Home in Sunamganj

In a disturbing incident in Jagannathpur Upazila, Sunamganj, the family home of a late freedom fighter came under attack after attempts to forcibly evict them from government-allotted land reportedly failed. The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon in Islampur village of Raninganj Union, targeting the residence of the late Abdullah Khan, a decorated war veteran. Family members have expressed deep concerns over their personal safety following the assault.

Allegations have emerged that Nizam Uddin, the organisational secretary of the Raninganj Union unit of the Jubo Dal, was present during the attack. However, he has denied any involvement, Telling our representative, “I have no knowledge of this incident. I did not go to the scene.”

Abdullah Khan’s son, Abdul Gaffar, explained that his family had been residing on a portion of government land in Islampur since the country’s independence. Subsequently, the government formally granted the land to his late father for a 99-year tenure, recognising his status as a freedom fighter.

Tensions escalated following political changes in August 2024, when the Awami League government was replaced. Abdul Gaffar claims that Nizam Uddin and his associates began scheming to seize the family’s land forcibly. At one point, they allegedly demanded a bribe of five lakh taka. When the family refused to comply, threats to their lives reportedly followed. The confrontation culminated on Sunday, when Gaffar alleges that Nizam Uddin led an attack on the family home, resulting in extensive property damage and looting of household items.

Abdul Gaffar stated, “For a long time, Nizam Uddin and a few others have been trying to seize our property. I lodged a formal complaint at the police station, but they reacted angrily, demanding five lakh taka. When we refused, they destroyed our home and stole our belongings. We have video evidence of the attack. Nizam Uddin led the assault.”

Sub-Inspector Hadi Abdullah of Jagannathpur Police, who inspected the site, confirmed, “Upon receiving reports of the vandalism, we visited the scene. The house belonging to the freedom fighter’s son has been demolished. Police are investigating the matter thoroughly.”

The following table summarises the key details of the incident:

Local residents have expressed shock over the incident, calling for immediate legal action and greater protection for families of freedom fighters, who have historically been honoured for their contributions to the nation. The police investigation is ongoing, and authorities are expected to determine culpability in the coming days.

The attack has once again highlighted the vulnerability of freedom fighters’ families to politically motivated land disputes, raising broader concerns about the enforcement of property rights and the security of national heroes’ descendants.