Bangladesh is approaching the one-year anniversary of breaking free from the oppressive rule of Sheikh Hasina, known for corruption and political misconduct. However, the troubling connection between crime and politics still lingers in the country. A recent incident in Narayanganj’s Araihazar, where Md Jahangir Hossain was allegedly killed by local BNP members, highlights this issue.
Reports reveal that Jahangir’s shop, among others, was taken over to establish the Ward 7 BNP office without his permission or rent payment. A confrontation ensued on July 30 when Jahangir demanded rent from Tota Mia Pradhan, a former BNP official, and other members. The dispute escalated into a physical altercation, leading to Jahangir’s death at a local health facility. While one suspect has been arrested, Tota remains at large.
This incident is not an anomaly, especially for the BNP, whose grassroots leadership has been marred by internal conflicts, reminiscent of past abuses under Hasina’s rule. Various parties have made headlines for unlawful activities in the last year, resulting in violence and casualties. According to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK), political violence, including extortion, murder, and rape, claimed 65 lives from January to June this year.
It is essential for political parties to establish robust accountability mechanisms to prevent criminal activities within their ranks. Merely expelling members post-incident, as seen in the Araihazar case, is inadequate. Parties must ensure active cooperation with law enforcement to hold every member accountable. Failure to implement such measures will perpetuate political misconduct.
We urge the government to thoroughly investigate Jahangir’s death and deliver justice. Sustained enforcement of the law is crucial to combat the entrenched culture of political crime in Bangladesh.