Human chain and submission of memorandum in Pabna

Civil society representatives, political activists, and local business leaders gathered in Pabna on Sunday to stage a human chain and submit a formal memorandum to the District Commissioner, alleging widespread extortion, tender manipulation, and land grabbing against Khaled Hossain Parag, the official photographer to the Prime Minister.

The demonstration, organised under the banner of the Pabna Conscious Citizens’ Committee, took place along Abdul Hamid Road in front of the Pabna Press Club. Participating speakers voiced deep concern over the alleged misuse of official clout, calling on the head of government to terminate Parag’s official appointment immediately.

Addresses were delivered by prominent local figures, including Noor Hossain Leon, Joint Convenor of the Pabna Conscious Citizens’ Committee; Sajib Sardar, local Youth Nationalist Party (Jubodol) leader; Ibrahim Rana, former Joint Convenor of the District Jubodol; Tanjid Anwar, a local entrepreneur; Abdullah Karim Tanmoy, an engineer and social activist; Mubarak Biswas, a local journalist; and Imamur Rahman, Director of the Pabna Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Demonstrators alleged that since his appointment as official photographer to the Prime Minister, Parag—who also holds the position of Convenor for the Pabna district unit of Jasas—has engaged in systematic extortion targeting local traders and government contractors. Speakers claimed he utilised his official proximity to central power to orchestrate land seizures, intimidate professionals, and smear journalists or business leaders who refused to comply with his demands.

Organisers argued that such conduct severely damages the reputation of both the administration and local political organisations. Speakers noted that while the residents of Pabna initially welcomed his national appointment with pride, his subsequent actions have caused widespread distress across various trade associations and professional groups.

Following the protest outside the press club, a delegation handed over a detailed memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister via the Pabna District Commissioner, demanding a formal inquiry into his activities and immediate removal from his post.