A case has been filed against Khondkar Mashiuul Azam, alias Chunnu, the former general secretary of the Baliakandi Upazila BNP and former president of the Baliakandi Bazaar Traders’ Association, for allegedly assaulting and extorting an expatriate. In protest, a half-day strike was observed in Baliakandi Upazila’s main market from 6 AM to 2 PM on Tuesday, August 19.
On Monday evening, the Baliakandi Bazaar Traders’ Association announced the strike following a press conference at the temporary BNP office. Prior to the press conference, a protest rally was held, starting from the BNP office, traversing the main roads, and concluding with a gathering at the Chourasta intersection. Speakers at the gathering described Khondkar Mashiuul Azam as a dedicated BNP leader, alleging that during the Awami League government, 48 “false” cases were filed against him. They claimed the current extortion case is part of a “conspiracy” and warned of tougher actions if the “false and baseless” case is not withdrawn.
The strike was formally called by Abdur Razzak, general secretary of the Traders’ Association. Osman Gani Manik, the association’s president, along with local BNP leaders, also spoke at the event.
Earlier on Monday morning, Poly Akter, wife of Italy-based expatriate Masum Sheikh, filed a case at the Baliakandi Judicial Court. The complaint alleges that Masum Sheikh was attacked and injured for refusing to pay a Tk 10 lakh extortion demand. The accused include Khondkar Mashiuul Azam, his two sons, Khondkar Shafiul Alam and Khondkar Shobhon Arefin, along with five others.
At noon, a human chain was formed in front of the District Administrator’s office, demanding the arrest and punishment of the accused. Organized under the banner “Baliakandi People from All Walks of Life,” the event saw participation from Masum Sheikh, his wife, and over a hundred others.
Masum Sheikh alleged that he has been living in Italy for 18 years. On August 13, after returning to Bangladesh, he visited his father’s grave on August 15. While returning, Shafiul Azam, his son Shafiul Alam, and others demanded Tk 10 lakh in extortion. Upon refusal, they allegedly attacked him with sharp weapons, hammers, and rods, causing severe injuries. He further claimed, “They handed me over to the police on false charges of being an Awami League supporter. I was released after the incident was reported in the media.”
Poly Akter, Masum’s wife, stated, “I was an assistant agriculture officer in Baliakandi Upazila. Shafiul Alam, Mashiuul Azam’s son, frequently harassed me. In 2019, I filed a case against him, leading to his imprisonment for a few months. Consequently, I was transferred to Faridpur.”
