Madaripur, July 9 (V7N) – A shocking land acquisition fraud has come to light regarding the Padma Bridge, one of the nation’s most significant infrastructure projects. It has been revealed that fraudulent landowners, using forged documents, illegally collected compensation for land that was originally owned by an unknown, deprived, and silent rightful owner in the Kawalipara Mouza of Kathalbari Union, Shibchar Upazila in Madaripur.

The rightful owner of the land, according to the BRS Khatian numbers 267 and 268, is Abu Kalam Khan, who had purchased the land through a legal deed 31 years ago. The land, after being sold by Majid Dhali, had no further financial or possession connection to him. However, it has recently emerged that Majid Dhali’s heirs managed to collect the compensation given by the government for the land acquired for the Padma Bridge project, by submitting fake documents, concealing their identities, and resorting to deception.

The list of accused includes both men and women, who allegedly worked together in a coordinated fraudulent network. The mastermind behind this scam is identified as Siraj Fakir, who reportedly created fake documents and siphoned off large sums of money from the land acquisition department. With the stolen funds, he is said to have bought an apartment in Dhaka. Despite having served time in prison for similar illegal activities, Siraj Fakir has not ceased his criminal operations. Local residents claim that many have fallen victim to his scams, and he has amassed millions of taka through fraudulent means. The community has urged the Anti-Corruption Commission to take action.

Abu Kalam Khan, the rightful owner, is both surprised and outraged. He has submitted a formal complaint to the district commissioner, where he states, "This land originally belonged to my father, and it is part of our ancestral property. Yet, I see criminals using my land’s identity to claim government compensation. I demand justice and the return of the compensation."

Multiple sources within the district administration have confirmed that the matter is under thorough investigation. The administration has assured that strict legal action will be taken against the perpetrators if the allegations are proven true.

Meanwhile, there is widespread anger among local residents. Many are expressing concerns that while the real owner is being deprived, the compensation meant for the national project is being pocketed by fraudsters. They consider this not just an injustice, but a betrayal of the state.

A call has been made by concerned citizens for a transparent investigation and exemplary punishment for the culprits. The case underscores the growing concerns over land acquisition frauds associated with major national projects.

END/SMR/SMA/