BNP Leaders Allegedly Extracting Sand Freely from Meghna Using Dredgers

Illegal sand extraction is reportedly taking place over a four-kilometre stretch of the Meghna River in the Dakshin Charabanshi Union of Raipur Upazila, Lakshmipur, with BNP leaders and activists accused of operating multiple dredger machines in the area.

Large-Scale Dredging Operation

According to Md. Imran Khan, UNO of Raipur,

“The allegations of illegal sand lifting are true. At least 30 dredgers were being used. We’ve already destroyed 10 of them, and the rest will be dismantled in phases.”

Named BNP Affiliates Involved

Local residents claim that BNP and its affiliate organisations have been actively involved in this operation for over a year, although previously some Awami League members were also implicated.

Ground Observations and Locals’ Plight

During an on-site visit to Miarhat, Panirghat, and Hajimara, multiple dredger machines were seen operating openly.

Md. Samad Ali, a local resident, shared:

“I lost one out of two bighas of my riverside farmland to erosion last year. I fear losing the rest any day.”

Jalil Mia from Panirghat added:

“Our lands are fertile, and now sand is being looted from the river nearby. If we try to protest, we’re threatened with arson attacks on our homes.”

Confessions and Justifications by Accused

Contradictory Statements from BNP Leaders

While some local BNP members acknowledge involvement, Anwar Hossain Howlader, another BNP figure, denied any personal role, stating:

“There is no government permission to extract sand from the river here. Some party members, who had previously fled due to legal cases, may now be engaging in this activity upon their return.

BNP’s Official Stance

J. M. Nazmul Islam, Convenor of Raipur Upazila BNP, responded:

“We’ve heard about the sand extraction. BNP never supports misusing the party’s name for illegal activities. If anyone is found guilty, organisational action will be taken. We’ve also urged the administration to take appropriate steps.”

Public Concerns and Demands

Victims and local residents have expressed growing fear over riverbank erosion, coupled with the unregulated sand mining, and are calling for immediate and effective intervention by the authorities.