Former AL Leader Accused of Cutting Road with Excavator in Madan

In a startling development in Netrokona’s Madan municipality, a former Bangladesh Awami League (AL) leader, Manjurul Haque, has been accused of attempting to cut through a road under construction using an excavator. The incident reportedly took place on Monday morning, with Haque personally overseeing the operation.

Local authorities and residents swiftly intervened. The Upazila administration arrived at the scene and ordered the immediate cessation of the work, preventing potential disruption to the area’s residents.

Manjurul Haque, a resident of Ward No. 7 in Madan municipality, has a history of political ambitions. He has sought nomination for the Netrokona-4 constituency (covering Madan, Mohanganj, and Khaliajuri) on multiple occasions, but has been unsuccessful each time.

According to officials at the Madan municipality office, the road in question was constructed approximately five years ago as part of the Rural Infrastructure Maintenance Project. It runs through Ward No. 6, near the Court Building area, and spans nearly one kilometre. Local residents have relied on this road for daily travel, and any obstruction could cause significant inconvenience.

Locals allege that after the construction of the road, Haque attempted to establish a college in the area under his mother’s name, even erecting a signboard to that effect. However, following changes in government, his plans for the college were abandoned. It is claimed that his attempt to cut the road was motivated by a desire to assert influence in the area. Residents have demanded that the authorities take legal action against him.

Despite complaints from local residents and landowners, Haque continued to proceed until stopped by officials. In his defence, Haque stated, “The road passes over my land. Therefore, I am cutting it. I will not give up my land, and other landowners must also release theirs. Work has been halted following instructions from the Upazila administration.”

Madan Municipality’s Assistant Engineer, Jamil Hasan, confirmed the situation: “The road was constructed five to six years ago by the municipality. Upon hearing reports of its attempted destruction, I instructed that work be stopped. When this was ignored, I escalated the matter to higher authorities.”

Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land), Shaolin Nahar, added: “We received reports that an excavator was being used to cut the road. The work was immediately halted by the administration.”

Key Facts: Road Incident, Madan Municipality

The incident has sparked concerns among local residents about the misuse of political influence and the need for strict enforcement of municipal regulations. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.