Asif Mahmud bypassed secy in file approval

The government has formed a seven-member committee to investigate alleged corruption and irregularities in the overall activities of the Local Government Division and its subordinate offices and agencies from 2009 to 2026.

State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam disclosed the information while talking to journalists at the Secretariat on Saturday afternoon.

He said the committee will examine the activities of the Local Government Division during both the Awami League government and the interim government period. The committee has been asked to submit its report within 60 working days.

The state minister said former adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan had approved a project file during the interim government’s tenure without the signature of the secretary concerned, which he described as a violation of rules. “The matter will also be investigated,” he said.

Mir Shahe Alam also raised allegations of major irregularities in a development project in Pirojpur. He claimed that after tenders were awarded, nearly Tk 6,000 crore was withdrawn without any work being completed.

Due to the alleged irregularities, he said, several development projects in the district have remained stalled for the past two years.

The state minister said steps would be taken soon to visit Pirojpur in person and restart the halted projects.

He further said the government is giving importance to development in all 64 districts.

“The Prime Minister is attentive to the development of every district. Instructions have also been given to take necessary measures for the development of Gopalganj. Bogura will also receive equal development like other districts,” he added.