Attempt to Reinstate 'Fake' Cooperative Committee in Lohagara

Tensions are escalating in Amada village of Lohagara upazila over attempts to reinstate the cancelled management committee of the Hazrakhali Canal Water Management Cooperative Society. Residents fear violent clashes if the controversial committee is restored.

The district cooperative office dissolved the 12-member committee on April 26. Locals and genuine society members allege that the panel was fraudulently formed and operated as a political syndicate by members of the banned Awami League.

The cancelled committee's roster relies heavily on familial and political ties. Key figures include Lakshmipasha Union Awami League General Secretary Jiru Kazi and his wife Fatema Begum (treasurer) and his son-in-law Al Imran Sheikh (general secretary). Other listed members include local Awami League leaders Hadiya Rahman, Mohammad Omar Molla and Ebadul Reza who is currently an accused in a sabotage case.

Tensions flared recently after the dissolved committee filed an appeal with the Khulna Divisional Cooperative Office seeking reinstatement. Villagers allege the group has the indirect backing of Upazila Cooperative Officer Abdur Rahman. However, Rahman denied these claims, stating that the dissolved committee had actually named him as a defendant in their appeal.

Fearing bloodshed and unrest, local residents have submitted a formal, written complaint to the local administration, demanding intervention to stop the reinstatement of the fraudulent committee.

Lohagara Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Shammi Kaiser confirmed receiving the complaint. "We will investigate the matter thoroughly, and appropriate legal action will be taken based on the findings," she assured.