Dhaka, June 3 (V7N) – A shocking case of alleged political land grabbing has come to light in the capital's upscale Baridhara J Block area, where 28 car showrooms and 45 shops were reportedly seized through intimidation and fabricated legal cases.

According to businessman Md. Asad, Dhaka North BNP’s Joint Convener, Ataur Rahman—popularly known as Ataur Chairman—and his associates orchestrated the occupation of his property by filing five false cases, including two murder charges tied to anti-government protests, despite Asad having no political affiliation.

Asad claimed he legally leased 57 kathas of vacant land and five shops on Road 18 from South Point School & College, owned by Engineer Abdur Rashid, in 2021 through a five-year agreement at a monthly rent of Tk 8.9 lakh. He invested over Tk 4.5 crore to build a commercial complex called “Workshop City,” which housed 28 car showrooms and utility services registered under his name.

In February 2024, he further leased 9 kathas on Road 20 from the same institution for an additional Tk 3.01 lakh monthly, where he constructed 40 more shops. Rent for the original property was also increased to Tk 10.73 lakh in 2024.

However, following the change in political power on August 5, 2024—when the previous regime collapsed—Asad’s business took a dark turn. He alleged that Ataur Chairman’s men forcefully took over the premises, claimed rent ownership, and began pressuring him to comply. When he refused, citing valid contracts, five fabricated cases were allegedly filed against him to force him out.

Ironically, instead of any legal action being taken against the landowner in this controversial dispute, Asad—the tenant with proper documentation—is facing criminal charges and threats of imprisonment.

Investigative findings revealed a twist: Engineer Abdur Rashid, who had been collecting rent from Asad, is not the rightful owner of the land. Reportedly, Rashid had used his political ties under the former Awami League government to lease the land, which actually belongs to a top BNP leader.

When questioned, Engineer Rashid admitted he does not legally own the land but became agitated when asked why he had been collecting rent. Ataur Chairman, on the other hand, has denied all allegations of land grabbing and case manipulation.

“I was never involved in politics,” said Asad. “Despite that, they have filed five false cases against me and forcefully taken over my business. I just want justice.”

The allegations have sparked concerns about politically motivated misuse of law enforcement and the safety of non-political business owners amid shifting power dynamics in Bangladesh.

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