We express shock over the brutal killing of Sohag, a 35-year-old scrap metal trader in Mitford, which occurred in broad daylight in front of numerous witnesses. A gang of 8 to 10 individuals forcibly removed Sohag from his shop and ruthlessly attacked him with both sharp and blunt weapons, ultimately stripping him and using concrete slabs to bludgeon him. A disturbing video capturing the heinous act is circulating on social media. Presently, four suspects have been apprehended. Among them, Mahmudul Hasan Mohin, reportedly linked to Jubo Dal, and five other suspects associated with different party factions. According to Sohag’s wife, her husband was targeted for refusing to pay Tk 2 lakh extortion money demanded by Mohin to run his business. This tragic incident highlights how criminal elements affiliated with political parties operate freely, perpetuating a history of extortion and violence from previous administrations, with only changes in the perpetrators’ affiliations.
Reports of various crimes such as extortion, assault, vandalism, rape, and murder committed by individuals linked to the BNP are deeply troubling. Despite the BNP expelling accused members and instructing police to file cases against them, such atrocities persist, exemplified by the gruesome murder of Sohag. Internal conflicts have also plagued the party, resulting in the deaths of at least 77 members due to infighting since August 5, as reported by Ain o Salish Kendra.
The inability of one of the country’s largest parties to regulate its affiliated groups raises concerns. It appears that no significant changes have occurred in the mindsets of these factions. While the BNP has stated its intolerance towards criminal activities by its members, merely expelling offenders each time a crime occurs, especially when widely publicized, fails to address the core issue: a culture that tolerates certain criminal behaviors from members in exchange for loyalty. This long-standing political culture has manifested dreadfully in the past, particularly during the previous Awami League administration.
These incidents should serve as a wake-up call not only for the BNP but for all political entities: the culture of intimidation and violence by members or associates must cease. This transformation must originate from within each party, with rigorous enforcement of ethical standards for its leaders and supporters.
Law enforcement should take action against politically affiliated criminals like Mohin proactively, rather than reactively to public outrage. Delays in response, waiting for viral videos or sensational crimes to occur, indicate a perilous state of complacency. Additionally, the government should investigate allegations that three prime suspects’ names have been omitted from the case related to Sohag’s murder.
Unless the BNP establishes a solid chain of command, cracks down decisively on any misconduct by its members, and eradicates all criminal elements, it risks alienating public support. Eliminating political criminality is not solely the responsibility of a party but is imperative for a successful democratic transition.