Rajshahi, July 11 (V7N) – Serious allegations have emerged against a local leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for allegedly occupying a room at the Rajshahi University Railway Station and converting it into an unofficial party office. The accused, Ekram Ali, serves as the President of the BNP’s Motihar Thana unit under the Rajshahi Metropolitan chapter.

According to local residents in the Station Bazar area, the railway room in question had remained unused for a long time and was locked following political developments on August 5. However, since then, it is alleged that BNP leaders, under Ekram Ali’s leadership, began using the room for political gatherings. While it remains closed during the daytime, the room reportedly becomes active in the evening, with party members assembling regularly.

A visit to the site on Monday revealed the presence of chairs arranged around a table, with Ekram Ali seated and surrounded by 8 to 10 party workers. Observers noted that the room had been cleaned, freshly painted, and fitted with a new door—indications that it had been prepared for regular use.

Local vendors offered corroborating accounts. A nearby tea seller said the room had long been neglected, without a door and filled with trash, but was now tidied up and occupied daily since the political unrest in July. “They’ve installed a new door and set up tables and chairs. It’s become a meeting spot now,” a fruit seller added.

When questioned about the allegations, Ekram Ali denied any wrongdoing. He stated, “The room had become a hangout for drug addicts. I cleaned it. No one has occupied anything illegally. People come here for tea and conversation—how is that occupation?”

Farid Ahmed, General Manager of the Western Zone of Bangladesh Railway, responded to the matter by saying, “I have recently taken charge. This is the first I’m hearing of it. If the allegations are verified, we will take appropriate action according to railway regulations.”

The Rajshahi University Station, located near the Suhrawardy Hall area of the university, was originally established to facilitate travel for students. Over time, however, it has become semi-defunct, with only a few local trains making stops there. At night, it often serves as a shelter for homeless individuals.

The incident raises questions about the misuse of public infrastructure for political activities and the lack of oversight in managing disused government property. Locals and civic observers have expressed concern over the apparent ease with which political groups can informally claim public space, calling for stricter enforcement and transparent investigation.

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