Regarding the arrest of Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari, spokesperson of the Bangladesh United Sanatan Awakening Alliance and head of Pundarik Dham, Advisor to the Ministry of Local Government, Rural Development, and Cooperatives, Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, stated, “Attempts are being made to create instability surrounding an arrest that took place yesterday (Monday). Let me make it clear: anyone involved in acts of treason, no matter who they are, will not be shown any leniency. This is not about communities but about state security, and the law enforcement agencies will act accordingly.”
Asif Mahmud made these remarks in response to journalists’ questions after an event in Pirgacha, Rangpur, at noon on Tuesday.
He further stated, “If there is any interference with Bangladesh’s sovereignty and independence, any attack on the state, or acts of treason, the government will take strict measures. It must also be ensured that no community in Bangladesh is deprived or subjected to oppression based on their communal identity.”
In response to another question, Asif Mahmud said, “Yesterday, we witnessed how attempts were made to create instability by promising loans of 1,000 taka each from marginalized areas. This plan was thwarted with the participation of law enforcement and students. If similar conspiracies are attempted in the future, appropriate measures will be taken. The convener of ‘Ahingsha Bangladesh’ has been arrested and is being interrogated regarding this conspiracy.”
When asked whether there is a government initiative to remove Union Parishad (UP) chairpersons, the local government advisor said, “Until alternatives are established, they will remain in place. Union Parishads are essential for providing various civic services, and we will make decisions on their matters as soon as alternative arrangements are developed.”
Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan arrived in Pirgacha from Dhaka by helicopter at around 10:30 am and attended a winter clothing distribution event for the underprivileged at the Powtanahat College ground at 11:00 am.
During the event, he stated, “Let us not forget those who gave their lives or were injured in the July uprising, dreaming of building a new Bangladesh. The government has announced compensation of 3 million taka for each martyr’s family, which will be implemented. Additionally, the government will ensure lifelong support for these families and the injured, including creating employment opportunities.”
He emphasized ensuring that local development occurs without discrimination and promised equality in development between Rangpur and other northern districts and the rest of the country.
Prominent attendees included the acting secretary of the Local Government Division, Nazrul Islam; District Commissioner Mohammad Robiul Faisal; Superintendent of Police Mohammad Sharif Uddin; LGED Rangpur Region Superintendent Engineer Anisul Wahab Khan; Pirgacha Upazila Executive Officer Mohammad Nazmul Haque; and Rangpur Reporters Club and Journalists Union Secretary Sarkar Mazharul Mannan.
Speakers, including family members of the martyrs of the uprising, called for addressing economic disparities in the Rangpur region, creating employment opportunities, reopening closed sugar mills, and establishing agricultural and science and technology universities. They also demanded justice for those involved in genocide.
Nazir Hossain, Chairman of Chaola Union Parishad, demanded the construction of a bridge over the Teesta River to connect Pirgacha with Ulipur in Kurigram. In response, Asif Mahmud promised the construction of the bridge soon.
Following the event, he visited the area in Paniyal where the bridge was demanded and is scheduled to distribute winter clothing to the underprivileged in Kaunia Upazila later in the afternoon.
