Masud Rana Abu, the Food Control Officer of Kaharol upazila, was allegedly assaulted at his office on Sunday. The incident is linked to the removal of ineligible names from the beneficiary list of the Food Friendly Program.
The officer claimed he was attacked by a group of 20-25 people, led by Anwar Hossain Imran, Joint Convener of the upazila Jubo Dal. The group reportedly included local UP Chairman Jahiduzzaman Limon, who was angered after several names he submitted were lawfully excluded from the final list.
The mob allegedly subjected the officer to verbal abuse and physical assault. The victim has officially reported the incident to higher authorities, including the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) and the District Food Controller.
While the accused Jubo Dal leader denied the allegations, calling it a "verbal argument," the local Jubo Dal Convener acknowledged the incident and previous complaints against the leader, stating such acts harm the party's image.
The District Food Controller confirmed the misconduct by the chairman's group. However, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer dismissed it as an "isolated incident" and a "misunderstanding," claiming resolution.
The administration's response has raised serious questions about the safety of public servants performing their duties and the impartial enforcement of rules.
