Bangladesh is facing a terrifying reality. Since August 5, the level of extortion across every region of the country has risen alarmingly. Former governor and economic adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has made it clear that the interim government has completely failed to tackle this brutal problem. It is not only economic loss — ordinary people’s lives have been thrown into utter disarray. From big businessmen to pavement shopkeepers, rickshaw drivers to farmers, even beggars — no one is safe from the web of extortion.
One cannot deny that a political shadow is behind this extortion. Leaders and activists of BNP–Jamaat–NCP are actively involved in these crimes. Sitting under the shadow of the Yunus government, they are spreading fear, terror, and economic oppression to every corner of the country. Industrial enterprises have shut down, while the administration is a silent spectator. Killings, murders, rapes — the administration is effectively mute in the face of this lawlessness. If this group comes to state power in the future, women will not be safe at home or outside. If people protest, they will be openly killed, and the administration will still remain indifferent.
They wear the mask of Islam, but they are completely alienated from the true teachings of Islam. Islam is a religion of peace, justice, and tolerance, which establishes brotherhood among people. The Qur’an says — “To you your religion, and to me my religion.” Yet Jamaat and its collaborators are using religion as a tool for exploiting people and asserting political dominance. The youth are becoming confused, and hatred and fear are spreading through society.
Extortion is not only causing economic damage — it is pushing the country’s social and political fabric toward destruction. Those who are awaiting power are constantly oppressing ordinary people. Small traders, wage-earners, and farmers find life dangerous if they do not pay their extortion money. Even industrial units are closing under the pressure of extortion, which is bringing severe damage to the national economy.
According to Dr. Salehuddin’s remarks, administrative measures alone are not sufficient to control extortion. A strong, elected political government and firm political commitment are needed. Because the crime of extortion is directly connected to political shelter and patronage. When the government is not elected by the people’s vote, the political will to take harsh measures against criminals is absent.
The people of Bangladesh now stand in deep crisis. Extortion is not only harming the economy — it is severely attacking the country’s democracy. When the administration is silent, and criminals are looting, carrying out massacres and spreading fear, the frightened populace becomes mute. To free the country from this situation, the only solution is to establish a strong elected government through popular vote.
To save the nation, now is the time to take strong political initiatives, activate the administration, and suppress the extortionists. Otherwise, future generations of Bangladesh will suffer in fear, hatred, and anarchy.
