Allegations of Bribery in Project Funds

Allegations have surfaced against a government Project Implementation Officer (PIO) in Narail’s Kalia Upazila over claims of demanding a bribe in exchange for releasing the second instalment of a government-funded project. The accusation has been formally submitted to the district relief authorities, prompting calls for an official investigation.

According to a written complaint filed on 18 June, local resident Mo. A. Kader Sikdar accused Mo. Mostafa Kamal, the Project Implementation Officer of Kalia Upazila, of demanding BDT 100,000 as an unofficial payment to release funds under a Test Relief (TR) project.

The complainant stated that two educational institutions—Nardagati Markaz Sawtul Quran and Nardagati Women’s Madrasa—had been allocated TR project funds for infrastructure development and earth-filling works. The institutions are managed by local religious education administrator Hafiz Rahmatullah. Construction work funded by the first instalment had already been completed, according to the complaint.

However, during the processing of the second instalment, the PIO allegedly demanded the additional payment beyond official expenses, warning that the funds would not be released without it. The complainant further claimed to possess video evidence of the alleged interaction and has requested a formal inquiry and administrative action.

Allegations and Response

The accused official, Mo. Mostafa Kamal, has strongly denied the allegations. He stated that three projects worth approximately BDT 600,000 were initially assigned, and that the complainant had already withdrawn BDT 300,000 in the first phase but failed to complete the required work on time.

He further explained that only one project instalment had been released and that two projects remained incomplete within the stipulated deadline of 22 June. According to him, his queries were strictly related to project implementation progress and financial accountability rather than any demand for personal gain.

The official also claimed that the complainant later expressed willingness to return funds, and that the bribery allegation emerged from edited video footage taken out of context.

Meanwhile, District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer A. B. M. Monowarul Alam confirmed receipt of the written complaint. He stated that although he had not yet reviewed the video evidence, the matter would be investigated thoroughly and appropriate legal and administrative measures would be taken based on findings.

Summary of Key Claims

The case is now expected to proceed through an official inquiry process, with potential disciplinary or legal consequences depending on the findings.