Attack on doctor over unpaid donation, two youth leaders expelled

In Barisal District’s Banaripara Upazila, two local leaders of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party’s (BNP) youth wing have been expelled following allegations that they assaulted an Ayurvedic doctor after failing to extort money from him.

On Sunday, 15 February, the party’s central office issued a formal notification signed by Minhajul Islam Bhuiyan, Joint Secretary of the BNP Central Office, confirming the disciplinary action. The authenticity of the expulsion has been corroborated by Riaz Mridha, General Secretary of Banaripara Upazila BNP.

The expelled individuals are Maksudur Rahman Dalim, Member Secretary of Baishari Union Youth Wing, and Rafiqul Mallick, Senior Joint Convenor of the same union unit.

According to the official notification, both leaders were found guilty of violating party discipline, engaging in activities contrary to the party’s principles, ethics, and unity. As a result, they have been stripped of all party membership, including their primary membership, and the party has urged law enforcement agencies to take necessary legal action against the accused.

Incident Details

The controversy erupted after the two youth leaders reportedly demanded an extortion payment from Dr Bivas Rishi, an Ayurvedic practitioner operating in Baishari Bazar, Banaripara. When their demand was refused, the leaders allegedly attacked Dr Rishi on Friday, 13 February. A video of the assault quickly circulated on social media, sparking public outrage and criticism.

The BNP central office emphasised that maintaining internal discipline and adhering to the party’s ethical standards are non-negotiable. The expulsion highlights the party’s commitment to enforcing accountability among its members and curbing any behaviour that undermines its integrity.

Local political observers noted that the viral video played a pivotal role in prompting swift disciplinary action, as the public attention threatened to tarnish the party’s reputation in the region. The incident also raises concerns about the safety of professionals and businesspeople in Banaripara, prompting calls for stronger law enforcement presence and protection for citizens.

This episode serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by political parties in monitoring grassroots leaders and ensuring that local representatives uphold both legal and moral standards.