Illegal market on govt land raises concern

A heated dispute has erupted in Dhanbari of Tangail, as allegations of an illegal market construction project on government property continue to make headlines. Local business figures claim that the project, backed by influential individuals, persists despite numerous attempts by the local administration to halt its progress.

At the heart of the controversy is the development of a 9-room commercial complex within the Dhanbari vegetable market. The sprawling construction site covers a substantial area, with rooms awaiting final touches like tiling and roofing.

Evidence from the Upazila Land Office confirms that this market construction is occurring on government-owned land within the Dhanbari vegetable market. Warning signboards have been posted by the upazila administration to halt further construction, and a mobile court has intervened, confiscating construction materials and imposing fines. However, construction activities continue under the patronage of local influencers.

Reports suggest that 14 individuals, including Kismat, Director of the Dhanbari Bazar Bankers Association, and businessmen like Mustafa Doctor, Aja Munsi, Quddus, Honey, and Rafiqul Islam Liton, are spearheading the project without proper land documents. Some of them have allegedly occupied the land without authorization from the eastern side.

Local businessmen accuse the group of forcibly establishing a market on government-owned land, and despite administration warnings, construction continues, bolstered by local influencers. Authorities have been alerted to the need to stop construction on government property.

Mustafa Doctor, one of the businessmen involved, defended the project, saying, "We've been doing business and constructing buildings here for a while. As vacant shops became a concern, we collectively decided to create a market. Some have the right land documents, while others don't."

Liton, another key figure, asserted, "This market rightfully belongs to us, and we possess the necessary documents. Yet, the administration has halted our work and posted signboards indicating government ownership."

Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Md. Aslam Hossain disclosed that construction orders were issued upon initial reports of the dispute. Despite these orders, construction continued, and materials were confiscated by the mobile court. Signboards now clearly proclaim government ownership.

Deputy Commissioner Kaycharul Islam confirmed the construction halt, with added security to deter nighttime work. The administration is resolute in reclaiming government land. The situation remains fluid as authorities work to resolve this ongoing dispute.