Political Links Probed After Mirpur Health Centre Demolished, Officer Removed
A health centre for mothers and children in Mirpur, Dhaka, was completely demolished last week. The Radda MCH-FP Centre provided vital care to many low-income families. About 200 to 250 people attacked the centre last Thursday night. They used an excavator to destroy the buildings.
Police have now arrested 10 people in connection with this attack. Law enforcement officials also removed the officer-in-charge (OC) of Shah Ali police station, Jahangir Alam. He was found negligent in his duties during the incident.
Investigations show that several local political figures may have organized the attack. These individuals are reportedly linked to the BNP. They helped gather attackers, supplied locally made weapons, and arranged the excavator. Attackers also held two security guards hostage. They looted medical equipment, medicines, and vaccines.
After the demolition, the attackers put up signboards. These boards named “Like-Minded Shopkeepers Cooperative Society Limited.” Some local BNP leaders are also connected to this cooperative.
Lawmaker Ferdousi Ahmed, a BNP member from a reserved women’s seat, denied any role in the attack. However, some accused individuals are known as her close associates. She stated she had applied for the land for the cooperative in 2006, but had no further involvement.
The case filed by the Radda MCH-FP Centre names Mohammad Hanif Mia as an accused. He is a former member of the BNP’s Dhaka North City unit. The case also lists 250 unidentified people. Hanif Mia and other BNP figures, Abul Kalam Azad and Mostafa Jaglul Pasha, are suspected of giving instructions during the attack.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed spoke about the incident on Sunday. He confirmed police negligence. The minister said strict action would be taken against all offenders. He added that an offender has no political identity.
Despite the destruction, the dedicated staff of the Radda MCH-FP Centre continued their services. They treated over 50 women and children on the road in front of the ruins on Sunday. The Youth and Sports State Minister Aminul Islam visited the site. He promised quick renovation so services can resume fully.
