Rajshahi, Sep 02 (V7N) - The garden estate in Thakurgaon is a sight that captures anyone’s attention. Surrounded by ponds and rows of mango, lychee, and betel nut trees, the estate features an exquisite house along with a collection of bonsais worth a fortune. This stunning garden estate belongs to former State Minister and Rajshahi-6 Member of Parliament, Shahriar Alam.

In 2010, Shahriar Alam purchased 25 bighas of land on the eastern side of Chowdhuryhat Bazaar in Thakurgaon Sadar Upazila. He named it North Bengal Agro Farms Limited. However, he has reportedly occupied nearly 10 bighas more than the purchased land, including inherited land from others and government property. Allegations have also been made against the former minister for taking out a mortgage of 200 crore takas using these properties as collateral.

The estate features four ponds surrounded by rows of mango, betel nut, and dragon fruit trees. In addition to rice cultivation, various vegetables like bottle gourd and papaya are grown. The estate also boasts a variety of bonsai trees.

Local residents were prohibited from entering the estate. Allegations of forcibly acquiring land in addition to the purchased land due to his political influence have also been made.

Local resident Khokon mentioned, “We know this is the former foreign minister’s property. Entry has always been strictly prohibited. No one has been able to enter here until now. There is much curiosity among people about what is inside and what is happening here. In addition to the purchased land, there is also land that was forcibly taken from others.”

Rafiqul, a worker at the estate, shared, “Various types of vegetables and rice are cultivated here. Fish farming is done in the ponds. There is a lab for working on potato varieties. Additionally, there are many trees that require maintenance.”

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