Netrakona, Jan 11, (V7N) - Serious allegations have surfaced against Md. Saiful Islam, the headteacher of Mansurpur Government Primary School in Atpara Upazila, Netrakona. Reports claim that he demanded significant sums of money as extortion from business owners at Mansurpur Puratan Bazaar. Additionally, he allegedly altered the school's building design during construction, raising concerns among locals.

The accusation of extortion was brought to light by Mohammad Khokon Mia on behalf of the business owners in Mansurpur Bazaar. According to the complaint, 18 shopkeepers who have been operating in the area for over 60 years are now facing eviction threats initiated by the headteacher. They allege that Md. Saiful Islam has demanded large sums of money in exchange for allowing them to continue their businesses.

One of the shopkeepers stated, “The headteacher has made it clear—no payment means no business here.”

Md. Saiful Islam, however, has denied all allegations of extortion.

Meanwhile, the matter of design alteration has also drawn criticism. Md. Delwar Hossain, a sports teacher at Mansurpur High School, mentioned that the headteacher modified the original plan of the primary school building, leading to the loss of the nearby playground. “Students no longer have a field to play in due to this construction,” he said.

Khondaker Imon, Assistant General Secretary of the Mymensingh Metropolitan Jubo Dal and a local resident, expressed his concerns. “As a native of this area, I am deeply disappointed. The headteacher has destroyed the Abdul Hamid High School playground by building the primary school. On top of that, he has allegedly demanded extortion money from local business owners. Instead of focusing on the school, he is preoccupied with other ventures,” he added.

Parents, teachers, and local residents have collectively condemned these actions. Shopkeepers at Mansurpur Puratan Bazaar expressed their frustration, pointing out that they have been conducting business in the area for decades and now face the threat of eviction unless they pay large sums to the headteacher.

In response to these allegations, District Primary Education Officer Mohammad Shahidul Azam assured, “I will coordinate with the Atpara Upazila Education Officer to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and take necessary actions.”

The allegations against Md. Saiful Islam have sparked widespread outrage among locals, business owners, and school stakeholders. They are calling for immediate action to address the situation and ensure justice for those affected.

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