Govt takes zero-tolerance policy against extortion, corruption

Bangla Press Desk: The government led by Tarique Rahman has adopted a zero-tolerance policy against extortion, terrorism, corruption, and all forms of irregularities. After assuming office as Prime Minister, Tarique Rahman made it clear in the very first cabinet meeting that his government would maintain zero tolerance toward any wrongdoing. He has reiterated this strict policy in various party and state-level meetings. Ministers, Members of Parliament, and the administration have already begun implementing the Prime Minister’s directive.

It is reported that Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has declared his constituency, Feni-3 (Daganbhuiyan-Sonagazi) in Feni, free from extortion, terrorism, and all forms of irregularities. He has also launched a hotline number (01730004844) to receive related complaints. In a Facebook post yesterday, the minister stated, “We are committed to keeping the Feni-3 area free from extortion, terrorism, and any kind of irregularity. Raise your voice against injustice and provide information without fear. Your information will be kept confidential.”Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anee said, “There is no opportunity for extortion on roads anywhere in the country. Especially not in Lakshmipur.” He made this statement while speaking with journalists at the Lakshmipur Circuit House in Lakshmipur.

The Joint Secretary General of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) added that the Prime Minister has given special importance to law and order in cabinet meetings. He emphasized the need to control commodity prices during Ramadan and ensure responsible work across all departments to continue development.

Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Hossain Kaikobad has issued strict instructions to local administrations to eliminate drug dealers, terrorists, and extortionists. He also announced rewards for the administration if they succeed in making Muradnagar Upazila in Cumilla drug-free. Speaking at a meeting with Muradnagar Upazila officials, he clearly stated that anyone attempting to gain illegal benefits using party identity must face legal action, and that the administration will operate strictly according to the law. He called upon police and local authorities to suppress terrorists, extortionists, and land grabbers with firmness.

State Minister for Education Bobby Hajjaj said that Dhaka-13 will be established as an area free from extortion, including eliminating juvenile gangs. He added that the Prime Minister has warned that ministers, MPs, or party members involved in wrongdoing will face strict action.

State Minister for Road Transport and Bridges, Railways, and Shipping Habibur Rashid Habib said, “Before the election, I promised that if elected, I would make Dhaka-9 a terrorism- and extortion-free area. Now is the time to fulfill that promise. Anyone involved in irregularities will be brought under the law according to party decisions. Our position is zero tolerance.”

In Kamalnagar, Lakshmipur, cases have been filed against three BNP leaders and activists accused of extortion and attacking ordinary people using party positions. The newly elected MP for Lakshmipur-4 (Ramgati and Kamalnagar), ABM Ashraf Uddin Nizan, directly instructed that the case be filed. The case was filed Thursday night, naming three individuals and several unidentified others.

Relevant sources say that during an election rally, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman declared a strict stance against corruption, stating that no one involved in terrorism or extortion would be spared if BNP came to power. Corruption would be prevented at all costs, and strict action would be taken against corrupt individuals.

The Prime Minister has already begun working to fulfill these election promises. Observers say this marks the beginning of a new chapter in Bangladesh’s political arena, especially in the fight against extortion. One of the new government’s top priorities is to eliminate terrorism and extortion and establish a safe and stable society.

Anyone involved in terrorism or extortion—regardless of party affiliation—will face immediate organizational action and legal punishment. The government is working to build a law-and-order system free from political influence. The culture of crime previously protected by political patronage will be completely stopped.

Monitoring systems within the party will be strengthened, and complaints will be investigated quickly. If proven guilty, offenders will be expelled from the party. The administration will be allowed to work independently.

The goal of the new government is to build a Bangladesh where ordinary citizens can live safely, businesses can operate without fear of extortion, and political identity cannot be used as a shield for crime. After years of allegations and irregularities, people now seek a transparent, accountable, and secure state system.

Source: daily Sun

BP/SP.