Corruption clouds Sirajganj SDE
Questions have been raised within the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) regarding the unusually long tenure of a Sub-Divisional Engineer (SDE) in the Sirajganj Roads Division, sparking internal criticism and concern.
The officer in question, Md. Jahidur Rahman Milu, has reportedly remained in the same posting since late 2020 – well beyond typical government service rotation norms. Insiders allege that his extended stay has enabled him to build strong ties with certain contractors, facilitating an alleged system of bribery and commission-based dealings.
According to sources within the department, Milu is known for maintaining close relationships with a group of contractors described as “unscrupulous,” as well as with local political figures.
These connections are said to have strengthened his influence within the office, allowing him to play a central role in managing contractor relations and financial negotiations.
There are also claims that successive Executive Engineers have relied on Milu’s ability to handle contractors and oversee informal financial arrangements. Insiders suggest that his long presence in the same office has helped him establish a dominant position, with some alleging he operates with the backing of senior officials at the head office.
A senior Roads and Highways Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, alleged that Milu has accumulated substantial wealth – amounting to several crores of taka – through bribery and commissions over the past five to six years. The official further claimed that contractors are often compelled to pay unofficial fees to secure bill approvals. Failure to comply, it is alleged, can result in delayed or withheld payments.
Additional allegations include claims that substandard construction work has been approved under his oversight, sometimes through negotiated arrangements. Some contractors have reportedly been able to withdraw payments even for incomplete or undocumented work by submitting falsified paperwork.
Concerns have also been raised about alleged harassment of female staff members within the office. However, sources indicate that fear of retaliation – ranging from job loss to licence cancellation – has discouraged victims and witnesses from speaking out publicly.
Several contractors and officials have stated that informal complaints have previously been made to higher authorities, but no visible action has been taken.
When contacted by phone for comment, Md. Jahidur Rahman Milu declined to respond, stating that he would only address the matter in person after the Eid holidays when the office reopens. However, he could not be contacted by phone after Eid.
