A coalition of 38 prominent citizens has called for an impartial, comprehensive investigation into a surge of attacks, land seizures, and extortion reportedly perpetrated through political influence and muscle power, warning that these developments signal a significant decline in national law and order. In a statement released yesterday, the group urged the government to take collective responsibility for addressing the issue, emphasizing that accountability should extend beyond the home ministry.
The statement highlighted a rising number of incidents across various regions involving land and property grabbing, forced evictions, and violence. Specific examples included the recent vandalism and looting at the Radda MCH-FP Centre in Mirpur-1, Dhaka, an alleged land grab following a large-scale attack in the Beribandh area of Mohammadpur, and an assault on content creator Salman Muqtadir’s studio in the ECB area. The group also pointed to repeated allegations of eviction and unlawful occupation of khas land in multiple chars, including Char Bangla in Patuakhali, Bhatirtek in Noakhali’s Sadar upazila, Char Fasson, and other islands in Bhola. They noted that crops grown on these lands have also reportedly been stolen during nighttime raids.
Beyond property-related offenses, the statement raised concerns over a rising incidence of mugging in Dhaka and other urban centers, along with increasing cases of child sexual abuse and violence against women. The group suggested that many of these crimes involve individuals and networks connected to various political parties, armed supporters of the former government, and some members of law enforcement agencies. They accused police in certain areas of failing to act promptly or effectively due to alleged interference by ruling party leaders and activists implicated in such criminal activities.
The signatories characterized the situation as a multifaceted threat to public safety and urged the formation of a high-level, independent investigatory body to thoroughly examine these incidents. Their goal is to uncover the individuals and groups responsible, as well as identify any domestic and foreign patrons facilitating these actions, and to ensure they face strict legal consequences.
Notable members endorsing the statement include Sultana Kamal, Anu Muhammad, Khushi Kabir, Shirin Parveen Huq, Iftekharuzzaman, Abu Saeed Khan, ZI Khan Panna, Sara Hossain, Shaheen Anam, Shahidul Alam, and Samina Luthfa, among others.