Nepotism allegations against Jamaat MP over project allocations

Rangpur-6 (Pirganj) constituency MP Md Nurul Amin of Jamaat-e-Islami has faced allegations of nepotism in government development projects. Locals claim that close relatives of the MP have been made presidents of multiple projects under Test Relief (TR), Food for Work (KABIKHA) and Cash for Work (KABITA) programmes allocated in his favour.

According to sources, the government allocated Tk 30 lakh under TR, Tk 25 lakh under KABITA and 40 metric tonnes of food grains under KABIKHA to the MP for the current fiscal year. A total of 30 projects — 14 under TR, 11 under KABITA and 5 under KABIKHA — were undertaken in his constituency.

A visit to Tularampur village in Sadar union revealed work on two projects under the MP's special allocation. One project involved development of a prayer room and land filling under KABIKHA with 10 metric tonnes of food grains. The project president was Yakub Ali, who is the husband of the MP's cousin.

Another project in the same area involved road paving, guide wall construction and land filling. Its president was Salman Sharif Shaon, son of Yakub Ali and nephew of the MP.

Locals alleged that relatives and party activists have been appointed as project presidents in several other projects as well.

Mukul Mia, a resident of Tularampur, said multiple allocations have been given for the same prayer room, and project responsibilities have been given to members of the same family.

Manju Mia said an application for the development of the old Jame Mosque was not approved, while relatives received allocations.

Project president Yakub Ali said he did not know the allocation amount and was simply doing the work as instructed.

When contacted, MP Md Nurul Amin said he would speak later.

Upazila Project Implementation Officer Abdul Aziz said allegations would be investigated and action taken if irregularities were found.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mahmudul Hasan said there is no scope to withdraw money without work, and action will be taken if the allegations are proven.