Chinmoy arrested for sedition, not as community leader: Asif Mahmud

Adviser to the Ministry of Youth and Sports and Local Government, Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan, today clarified that Chinmoy Krishna Das Brahmachari has been arrested on charges of sedition, not as a leader of any community.
He made the remarks during an event at Paotana College field in Rangpur’s Pirgachha upazila, where winter clothing was distributed to underprivileged families.
“The government will take strict action against any act of sedition that threatens the sovereignty and independence of Bangladesh. Let it be clear to all: no one, regardless of their position or influence, will be spared if involved in such activities,” Asif said.
He stressed that law enforcement agencies act in the interest of national security, without any communal bias.
Touching on development disparities, Asif said, “In the past, development in the country was concentrated in areas tied to prime ministers and ministers. We aim to eliminate such inequality and ensure nationwide progress.”
Referring to the historic 2024 mass uprising, he said, “The uprising emerged from people’s dreams of an equitable democracy. The platform from which it arose remains significant. We sought a democracy free from discrimination.”
On Rangpur’s development, the adviser said, “During Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, districts like Gopalganj have seen significant progress, while others faced neglect. Rangpur will no longer be subjected to such disparities. Special attention will be given to Rangpur in the national budget.”
He also mentioned plans to improve union parishad services through alternative arrangements.
Later, nearly 600 winter garments and blankets were distributed to vulnerable families. Relatives of those martyred in the 2024 uprising shared their stories of hardship during the event.
Following the programme, Asif Mahmud visited the proposed site for a bridge over the Teesta River at Panialen Ghat, connecting Rangpur’s Pirgachha and Kurigram’s Ulipur. Hundreds of locals gathered at the site to demand the construction of the bridge.
Additionally, the adviser inaugurated the newly constructed Pirgachha Upazila Parishad building.