Allegations Surrounding Hajiganj Grand Mosque Waqf Estate; Fears of Mob Unrest

Tensions have arisen surrounding the historic Hajiganj Grand Mosque and the Ahmad Ali Patwary Waqf Estate in Chandpur, fueled by a series of allegations and counter-allegations. Prince Shakil Ahmed, the Mutawalli (administrator) of the Waqf Estate, has alleged that a concerted effort is underway to create a negative public perception of the institution through publicity campaigns regarding matters currently sub judice. He fears that by influencing public opinion in this manner, attempts might be made to incite a mob or create a chaotic situation at the estate.

Prince Shakil Ahmed stated that a certain group is providing "false and misleading" information to various administrative departments to serve their own vested interests. He further alleged that campaigns are being conducted across social media and various mass media outlets.

The Mutawalli alleged that contractor Md. Kabir Hossain Liton misappropriated excess funds by creating forged vouchers. He claimed that an investigation by the Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI) confirmed the validity of charges under Sections 406 and 420 of the Penal Code regarding this matter. He noted that a case concerning this issue is currently proceeding in the Chandpur court.

Regarding Azad Rahman Masud Majumder, the Mutawalli claimed that Majumder had deposited 3.8 million (38 lakh) Taka for three units in a market under construction. The shops were subsequently handed over without the full payment being settled, and later, Majumder demanded 15 million (1.5 crore) Taka. He stated that this matter is also pending in court.

Additionally, allegations have been raised against Mohammad Alal Hossain for claiming ownership of and attempting to occupy land designated for a graveyard, and against former accountant Md. Shah Alam for attempting to embezzle funds in collusion with contractors and staff.

Denying the allegations, Kabir Hossain Liton stated that the accusations regarding forged vouchers and the misappropriation of excess funds are untrue. He maintained that these allegations were raised due to a dispute over financial accounts related to work done for the Waqf Estate. Azad Rahman Masud Majumdar stated that his position regarding shop allocations and financial transactions has been misrepresented. He also claimed that the Mutawalli's statement is incorrect.

Shah Alam asserted that the allegations of misappropriating Waqf estate funds are baseless. He maintained that he managed the accounts in accordance with regulations during his tenure and was not involved in any irregularities.

Mohammad Alal Hossain also denied the allegations, stating that claims regarding the encroachment of graveyard land or the assertion of illegal ownership are untrue. He claimed these accusations were made against him with malicious intent.

Today, the name 'Hajiganj' is recognized across the Muslim world—a source of pride for the residents of Hajiganj. Yet, in our journey to reach this pinnacle of prestige, we have repeatedly fallen victim to the conspiracies of vindictive, self-serving individuals. We continue our work as Sadqah-e-Jariyah (ongoing charity).

Prince Shakil Ahmed stated that no one should be held liable for matters currently sub judice before a verdict is reached. If a court ruling entitles anyone to funds or property, payment will be made in accordance with the rules. However, he noted that creating pressure through publicity campaigns prior to a verdict could disrupt the institution's peaceful atmosphere.

He called for administrative intervention to halt smear campaigns and attempts to incite disorder, thereby safeguarding the Waqf estate's reputation and maintaining a peaceful environment.