Patuakhali: Businessman Attacked Over Extortion Allegations, BNP Leader Served Notice

In Patuakhali, a local businessman has lodged allegations of assault, claiming he was targeted over extortion demands, prompting the Mirzaganj Upazila unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) to take disciplinary action against a senior party official.

On Monday, the district BNP’s General Secretary, Mojibur Rahman, issued a show-cause notice to Md. Zainal Abedin, the organisational secretary of Mirzaganj Upazila BNP. The notice cites reports that Abedin allegedly demanded money from a local fruit trader and subsequently assaulted him when the demand was refused.

According to the notice, such acts—if proven—contravene party discipline and tarnish the BNP’s public image. The leadership has requested a written explanation from Abedin within 48 hours of receiving the notice. Failure to provide a satisfactory response could result in further organisational measures.

Allegations by the Businessman

The complainant, Nirmal Das (50), a fruit merchant from Subidkhali Market in Mirzaganj, stated that Abedin repeatedly demanded an extortion payment of BDT 500,000. When he refused to comply, Das claims his college-going son, Rittik Das, was falsely accused of involvement with drugs and subjected to continuous harassment.

Nirmal Das’ Statement:

“Despite my repeated refusals, Mr. Abedin continued to pressure me. My son faced threats and accusations to force compliance, which has caused immense distress to our family.”

BNP Leadership Response

Mojibur Rahman, the district BNP General Secretary, emphasised that the party does not condone any form of coercion or extortion. He confirmed that the show-cause notice was issued following media reports highlighting the incident. Rahman added that disciplinary action would be considered depending on the response provided by Abedin.

“Our party is committed to maintaining discipline and public trust. If Mr. Abedin’s written explanation is unsatisfactory, we will take strict organisational action in line with party rules,” he stated.

Key Details at a Glance

The incident has sparked local concern, highlighting growing tensions between business communities and political figures in the region. BNP officials have underscored that they aim to resolve the matter internally while maintaining public confidence.

The case is now under close observation by both the local media and the political community, as further developments regarding Abedin’s response and any subsequent disciplinary measures are awaited.