Jashim uddin
Rajshahi Correspondent
Publication Date: October 14, 2026
Tensions have emerged between the local administration and activists of several political groups in Godagari, Rajshahi, over allegations of irregularities and political favoritism in the recruitment of fertilizer dealers. A case has been filed by the upazila administration over the alleged locking of the main gate of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer’s (UNO) office. Seven individuals have been named in the case, along with another 10 to 15 unidentified people, according to published media reports.
According to reports, activists of several political groups staged a demonstration in Godagari on Monday, October 12, demanding the removal of Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Israt Jahan over alleged irregularities and political favoritism in the fertilizer dealer recruitment process. During the demonstration, the main gate of the upazila administrative building was reportedly locked. Following the incident, the upazila administration took legal action, citing allegations of obstruction of official activities and inconvenience to people seeking public services.
Published reports citing upazila administration sources stated that Moktar Hossain, an assistant administrative officer at the UNO’s office, filed the case at Godagari Model Police Station on Monday night. Seven people were named in the complaint, while another 10 to 15 unidentified individuals were also accused. However, no information has been reported confirming that the allegations against the named individuals have been proven in court.
Protesters alleged that the prescribed rules and procedures had not been properly followed in the fertilizer dealer recruitment process and that political influence had played a role. Based on these allegations, they demanded the removal of the UNO. However, determining whether any irregularities actually occurred requires examining the relevant documents, recruitment criteria, applicants’ qualifications and the decision-making process.
Meanwhile, the upazila administration alleged that locking the main gate disrupted official activities and caused inconvenience to officials, employees and members of the public seeking services. The administration reportedly initiated legal proceedings in response to the incident. However, a complete understanding of the matter requires examining the case complaint, statements from the individuals concerned and the findings of the police investigation.
Published reports also quoted National Citizen Party (NCP) leader Atikur Rahman. He claimed that questions had been raised with the UNO regarding alleged irregularities in the fertilizer dealer recruitment process. He further alleged that a case was filed against them after they protested the issue. According to Atikur Rahman, they had been assured that the matter would be discussed with higher authorities after a written complaint was submitted. However, these statements represent the protesters’ claims, and the available information does not independently establish their accuracy.
On the other hand, UNO Israt Jahan reportedly told the media that the case was filed over the incident in which the office gate was locked, allegedly preventing officials, employees and service seekers from entering. While the protesters have questioned the transparency of the fertilizer dealer recruitment process, the administration has highlighted allegations of obstruction of official duties and public inconvenience. Both issues require impartial investigation.
According to media reports, activists of the Godagari Upazila unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and its affiliated and associate organizations also held a protest programme over the incident. On Tuesday, October 13, they reportedly organized a procession and rally, condemning the obstruction of government activities and demanding legal action against those responsible. As a result, the dispute over fertilizer dealer recruitment has also become a topic of discussion in the local political arena.
The incident in Godagari has once again highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in recruitment processes involving public interests. Fertilizer distribution and farmers’ access to agricultural inputs at fair prices are directly linked to agricultural production. Therefore, it is important to ensure that fertilizer dealer recruitment follows the applicable rules and that the eligibility criteria and reasons behind selection decisions are clearly documented. When allegations of irregularities arise, they should be investigated by the appropriate authorities, and necessary explanations should be provided to help maintain public confidence.
At the same time, ensuring the uninterrupted operation of government offices and protecting the rights of people seeking public services are also essential. Complaints should be raised through lawful and peaceful means. Allegations against any individual or group should not automatically be treated as established facts. The actual circumstances must be determined based on evidence, statements from all relevant parties and the findings of the investigation.
According to published reports, police initiated legal proceedings following the incident. However, as of the preparation of this report, no confirmed information was available regarding the final findings of the investigation, the resolution of the allegations of irregularities in the fertilizer dealer recruitment process or any court ruling. Therefore, determining responsibility for the alleged recruitment irregularities and the incident involving the locking of the office gate remains subject to investigation and legal proceedings.
It is expected that the relevant authorities will clarify the recruitment process, the protesters’ allegations and the circumstances surrounding the locking of the office gate through an investigation. Such steps could help strengthen administrative transparency in Godagari and address public concerns regarding matters affecting farmers’ interests.
