Residents of Azibpur, Siddhirganj have expressed alarm over allegations that a site historically used for the ritual washing of the deceased is being occupied to construct a permanent building. Locals claim the encroachment is being carried out by a political activist, who is reportedly invoking the names of both former and current Members of Parliament to exert influence over the land following recent elections.
Table of Contents
Historical Significance
According to community sources, the site has served the local population for nearly 80 years. In 1943, approximately 40 refugee families settled in Omarpur, Siddhirganj under government cards, creating a neighbourhood that preserved nearly one acre of open land for communal purposes. Over the decades, this space has been informally used for the ritual washing of deceased residents, becoming a vital part of the community’s cultural and social heritage.
Alleged Encroachment and Sale
Residents allege that on 12 February, shortly after local elections, Abdul Mannan Mona—also known as Driver Mona—began constructing a permanent building on the site. Locals further claim that Mona, who identifies as a BNP activist, sought to sell the land to a resident named Ganesh and allegedly received an advance of BDT 100,000.
Mona is said to have previously served as a driver for former Member of Parliament Gias Uddin and is now purportedly leveraging the influence of the current MP for the Narayanganj-3 constituency, Azharul Islam Mannan, to assert control over the site.
Community Concerns
Local resident Ruby Akter said, “I have seen this site used for our deceased relatives’ washing since childhood. If it is occupied, we will lose a place that is not just land but a part of our final rites and memories.”
When contacted, Mona acknowledged that the site had historically been used for ritual washing but denied allegations of unlawful occupation and declined further comment.
Official Response
District Commissioner Raihan Kabir stated that he was previously unaware of the matter and assured that an investigation would be conducted. He emphasised that government land cannot be legally occupied or sold. Siddhirganj Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge confirmed that a formal complaint has been lodged and an officer has been assigned to investigate.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Azibpur, Siddhirganj, Narayanganj |
| Historical Use | Ritual washing of deceased, community site for ~80 years |
| Alleged Occupier | Abdul Mannan Mona (Driver Mona), BNP activist |
| Alleged Sale | To resident named Ganesh, advance BDT 100,000 |
| Political Links | Former driver of ex-MP Gias Uddin; claims association with current MP Azharul Islam Mannan |
| Official Action | Investigation assigned by Siddhirganj Police; District Commissioner aware |
This case underscores growing concerns over the encroachment of culturally and historically significant sites in urban areas. Residents and experts alike warn that such occupation threatens community heritage, while highlighting gaps in governance, land use enforcement, and protection of communal spaces.