BNP leader accused of halting funeral prayer over unpaid debt in Narayanganj

A local BNP leader has been accused of obstructing the funeral prayer and burial of a businessman in Sonargaon, Narayanganj, over an alleged unpaid debt.

The deceased, Golzar Hossain, a resident of Goperbagh area under Sanmandi Union, died after suffering from a prolonged illness on Eid-ul-Azha day (May 29).

According to local sources, Golzar's body was taken to Mashurakandi Eidgah ground around 8am for funeral prayers on Friday. At that time, Sayem Pradhan, organising secretary of BNP’s Ward No. 6 unit in Sanmandi Union, allegedly demanded repayment of Tk 136,000, claiming it was owed by the deceased from a previous business transaction.

Witnesses said Sayem prevented the funeral prayer and burial from proceeding until the issue was resolved. The funeral was eventually allowed to take place after family members assured him that the outstanding amount would be repaid.

Local resident Hazrat Mia, who attended the funeral, said hundreds of people were present and described the incident as "highly disgraceful," adding that it sparked widespread discussion and criticism in the area.

When contacted, the deceased's nephew Saiful Islam said the matter had been resolved and that Sayem later apologised to those present.

Responding to the allegation, Sayem Pradhan acknowledged the dispute but denied intentionally stopping the funeral solely over the debt.

"Golzar Hossain owed me Tk 136,000 from a poultry business transaction. Despite repeated requests, I had not received the money. The incident was not simply about stopping the funeral; it was an attempt to reach a settlement," he said.

Sayem added that family members had promised to repay the amount on Sunday, after which the matter was resolved.

Sonargaon Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Golam Sarwar said police had not been informed about the incident.

"If we had been notified, immediate action would have been taken," the OC said.