12-member panel formed to ensure transparency in Shahjalal shrine donation management

The government has formed a 12-member high-level committee, led by Commerce, Industries, Textiles and Jute Minister Khandakar Abdul Muqtadir, to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of donation funds at the shrine of Hazrat Shahjalal (R).

The committee will recommend a modern and sustainable financial management framework for the shrine within one month, officials said after a closed-door meeting at the Sylhet Circuit House on Friday (June 26).

The decision comes amid recent controversy over the locking of the shrine's donation boxes.

Following discussions with shrine authorities and other stakeholders, participants agreed on the need for a transparent and coordinated system for managing donations and overseeing the shrine's affairs.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, the minister said the committee was formed through consensus to establish a transparent, accountable and long-term management structure.

Until the new framework is finalised, the existing committee will continue counting donation box collections under the current system, with the funds to be deposited in the shrine's existing bank account.

The committee includes representatives from the Sylhet Development Authority, Sylhet City Corporation, the divisional administration, police, the shrine's mutawalli family, and its mosque and madrasa.

The Sylhet deputy commissioner will serve as the committee's secretary.