Views Bangladesh
After the mass uprising, some leaders and activists of a few political parties, along with a section of emerging young leaders, seem to think that all power has now fallen into their hands. As a result, they have launched into widespread occupation and extortion.
The killing of people through mob beatings on the basis of false accusations is spreading in Bangladesh almost like an epidemic. Despite widespread discussion and criticism, this form of extrajudicial killing is not stopping in any way. According to news published in the media on Saturday (23 August), three people were beaten to death in three districts of the country after rumours were spread against them on Thursday night and Friday. According to the information received, one was a teenager and two were youths. Two of the victims were beaten on suspicion of theft, and one on the allegation of extortion. Police suspect that two of these incidents were premeditated.
Many of us may not know what kinds of irregularities take place in various government offices in the capital, Dhaka. Allegations of corruption sometimes appear in the media through which we learn a few things. But there are many crimes that go on day after day, which we never get to know about. Take the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), for instance. It is because of this department that the Farmgate area is known as Khamarbari. The DAE is responsible for the expansion of modern agriculture and crops across the country. The surprising fact is that, in this important government office, the dominance of various associations and organisations of officials and employees has been going on for years.
Dhaka College and City College—two neighbouring educational institutions in the capital—seem to have a relationship like that of snake and mongoose. Day by day they appear to be turning into “eternal enemies”. Why they clash every now and then is something not only the general public but even the law enforcement agencies reportedly do not know. Yet their clashes continue in succession, which is a matter of concern for the country’s education.
Borrowing from banks is increasing, but repayment is not. On top of that, irregularities, scams and collusion with boards are leading to looting of funds. As a result, distressed and defaulted loans are rising uncontrollably. In such a situation, distressed loans in the banking sector have reached Tk 7.56 trillion. By the end of 2024, this amount rose by nearly 59 per cent compared to the previous year. This figure starkly illustrates the fragile state of the country’s financial sector.
The looting of stones in the Bholaganj white stone area of Sylhet has stirred up a storm across Bangladesh in recent days. Following widespread criticism in the press and on social media, the administration was finally jolted into action. Through joint force operations, some of the stolen stones have already been recovered. But now comes even more alarming news – along with the stones, the Shah Arefin Hillock has also been looted.