Allegation after allegation, yet promotion for UNO.

M Badal Khandaker (District Correspondent), Brahmanbaria A series of allegations including irregularities, corruption, abuse of power, and bias in recruitment and leasing processes have been raised against Shahina Nasrin, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Nasirnagar in Brahmanbaria. Cases have also been filed in court over some of these allegations. Amid this, she has been promoted to the post of Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) of Gopalganj. The Ministry of Public Administration issued a notification regarding this on August 25. During her tenure in Nasirnagar, allegations were raised against her regarding recruitment at the model mosque, distribution of government salt, leasing of khas ponds, water bodies, and cattle markets. The case filed against her over irregularities in the appointment of an imam at the model mosque is currently under trial in court. The most recent issue to draw attention is the registration of Bhalakut Ekota Matsyajibi Cooperative Society Limited. Local fishermen allege that the purported fake society was registered through irregularities, excluding genuine fishermen. They have also alleged bribery in this regard. In protest against the allegations, more than a hundred fishermen recently held a human chain and demonstration in Bhalakut. In addition, there are allegations of irregularities in the leasing of Bila Kupa water body in Manoharpur, the khas pond in Buriswar, and various cattle markets. Locals have also alleged irregularities in the distribution of government salt and in the allocation of 3 million taka for road construction in Chatolpara. Regarding the allegations, UNO Shahina Nasrin said all activities were carried out in accordance with the rules. She said the allegations against her are not true. However, amid a string of allegations, court cases, and local protests, her promotion has raised questions — whether any administrative investigation was conducted into the allegations, what the findings were, and what considerations were made to promote her to an important post before the allegations were resolved. Local complainants have demanded a neutral investigation into these matters and necessary action.