BNP Leader Allegedly Threatens to Seize Petrol Pump in Sharsha

In Sharsha, Jessore, allegations have emerged that a local petrol pump is under threat of forcible takeover. Victims claim that Anwar Hossain, also known as Ainal, a leader of the BNP, is using fraudulent documents and political influence to attempt to seize the petrol station.

On Sunday, 21 September, Tanima Tasnuma, a member of the aggrieved family, addressed the media at the Jessore Press Club, reading a prepared statement outlining the situation.

Anwar Hossain serves as the Joint General Secretary of the Bagachhara Union BNP in Sharsha.

Tanima Tasnuma explained that her father, Golam Kibria, purchased 17 decimals of land in Bagachhara mouza in 1995 and established Messrs Golam Kibria Filling Station, which he successfully operated for many years. He passed away in 2022.

From 2023 onwards, it is alleged that Anwar Hossain and his associates began forcible attempts to take over the pump using fraudulent documents. They reportedly tried multiple times to seize the station, and eventually forged a judicial signature to create a fake handover agreement.

Tanima added:“We have filed cases against the forged documents. In fact, the judge whose signature was forged has also filed a case. Both cases are currently ongoing. However, Anwar Hossain and his men have not stopped. On Friday, 19 September, they allegedly entered the filling station, seized the keys and all documents, and expelled the manager. When police were informed, they left but continued to issue threats using political influence. We now request administrative intervention to protect our property.”

Anwar Hossain denied the allegations, claiming: “I purchased the land and the petrol pump for BDT 6.08 million. I have been operating the pump since 1999. Until April this year, the pump was under my control. Golam Kibria’s widow and children are rejecting the documents and agreements, and with the support of the Petrol Pump Owners’ Association and the police, they have taken the pump from me.

The Officer-in-Charge of Sharsha Police Station, Abdul Alim, confirmed: “We have received a written complaint from the victims. The matter is under investigation.”

Key Points

The situation highlights ongoing tensions over property rights in Jessore, with claims of political interference and document forgery intensifying the dispute.