Jhalokathi, Sept 21 (V7N) — Villagers in Saturia Union of Rajapur Upazila staged a human chain and protest on Sunday morning, accusing local officials of corruption and irregularities in preparing the rice distribution list for the impoverished. The demonstration took place at Lebubunia Market in front of the Saturia Union Parishad office, with affected residents demanding immediate corrective action.

Protesters alleged that the Union Parishad Chairman, Moinul Haidar Nipu, and Ward-2 Member Abdul Jalil included names of their relatives and influential families while excluding genuine poor residents from the rice distribution list. They claimed that as a result, actual beneficiaries are being deprived of support. Speakers at the event included Rina Begum, Firoza Begum, Mostafizur Rahman Montu, Sultana Akter Moni, Jesmin, Shahinur, Parvin, Amir Hossain, Shefali, Mala Begum, Hasi, Ruhul Amin Farazi, Pakhi Akter, Mojiran Begum, Beauty Rani, Sima, Kahinur, and others.

The protesters demanded a full investigation into the alleged irregularities and a revised list to ensure that deserving poor residents receive rice. They warned of escalating the movement if their demands were not met.

Member Abdul Jalil denied the allegations, claiming that names he submitted were also excluded. Chairman Moinul Haidar Nipu stated that out of 2,100 people, 400 names appeared on the list, and that any discrepancies were handled by the designated tag officers, asserting that the Parishad itself had no role in the errors.

Rajapur Upazila Women’s Affairs Officer Umme Ayesha Siddika confirmed receiving complaints and assured that any well-off individuals included in the list would be investigated and corrected accordingly.

The controversy highlights ongoing concerns over transparency and accountability in local poverty relief programs, prompting residents to demand fair distribution of resources.

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