Absconding 'outlaws' holding UP posts in Khulna!

The two UP chairmen are Alamgir Kabir of Gutudia union and Shafiqul Islam Litu of Bhandarpara union.

Alamgir Kabir was elected unopposed as none dared to contest against him, police said. An activist of outlawed Biplobi Communist Party (BCP), Kabir is accused in several criminal cases including murder cases. Shafiqul Islam Litu who was elected through alleged massive rigging also belongs to BCP. Police said he is also absconding as FIR-named accused in several criminal cases.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Police sources said 13 out of 14 UP chairmen were supported by outlawed BCP headed by Monoranjan Goshai alias Mrinal in the last UP election held in February-March this year.

When asked, First Class Magistrate Jahanara Begum who is holding charge as Assistant Director for local government blamed the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) for not taking necessary step for their oath-taking. Sources said the fugitive UP chairmen applied to the Deputy Commissioner in writing for extending time for oath-taking. The UNO is yet to officially inform the DC whether the two UP chairmen have taken oath or not, Jahanara Begum said. "We are awaiting a reply from the UNO to inform the Election Commission to declare the seats vacant and arrange byelection", she said.