New extortion groups emerging after ouster of AL: Anu Muhammad
The harassment of leaseholders in markets hasn't stopped yet, he says
Economist Anu Muhammad has expressed concern over the resurgence of extortion activities in various parts of the country following the fall of Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Jatiya Press Club today (21 November), he claimed, "New extortion groups are emerging. The harassment of leaseholders in markets hasn't stopped yet."
Anu Muhammad, also a professor of economics at Jahangirnagar University, urged the government to take measures to address this issue.
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The press conference titled "How much of the interim government's 'Urgent Actions' has been implemented in 100 days" was organised by the Ganatantrik Odhikar Committee.
Professor Anu Muhammad, also a member of the committee, reviewed the progress of the 13-point demands that were submitted to the interim government on 5 October.
"We don't understand why the complete list of martyrs, missing persons, and injured individuals has not been published yet. The families of the martyrs and the injured have not yet been taken care of," he said.
Anu Muhammad also raised doubts over the effectiveness of trials in the International Crimes Tribunal, as the cases filed with the court do not have specific allegations.
"The false cases filed in the last 15 years have not been withdrawn yet," he added.
He further raised concerns about the appointment of judges and the government's lack of effective measures to control commodity prices. "Prices are not actually under control. In the case of commodities like oil, eggs, and onions, it is evident that a few companies control the market."
The economist also claimed the government has not played its due role in this area.
He called for the public release of the reports from two investigation committees established under the previous government to probe bank heists, money laundering, and stock market manipulation.
Professor Muhammad also announced that the Ganatantrik Odhikar Committee will be organising a gathering on the Central Shaheed Minar at 3pm on Saturday, bringing together people from all walks of life, religions, genders, ethnicities, professions, and cultures under the banner "Unity in Diversity."
